The Australian hoverboard police have issued a Christmas warning

The Australian hoverboard police have issued a Christmas warning - Listen up, young children and Jason Derulo, and heed these warnings about riding hoverboards before you give yourself a concussion.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) - an industry regulator and consumer rights body - has released a statement on hoverboards. That's the new hip electronic hoverboards, not the actual ones, sadly.

Urging potential buyers to stay safe this Christmas, the ACCC have constructed a thorough buyer's guide to make sure you don't accidentally set yourself on fire while riding a self-balancing scooter, like this poor soul nearly did.

The ACCC would like all budding hoverboard pilots to wear helmets, knee pads, elbow pads and wrist guards when riding them in future. Marty McFly didn't need to, but then again he was riding an actual hoverboard.

The statement also warns consumers they "may get caught in the Christmas rush and not take the time that they should to read instructions or warning labels."

It outlines a number of key things to be aware of, including your own ability to actually stay upright on them. "As controlling the hoverboards relies entirely on balance," the report reads, "falls from hoverboards are highly likely ... Injuries could include fractures, sprains, cuts, bruising, spinal injuries, head injuries and concussion."

Regulations on hoverboards vary from state to state in Australia, and in November New South Wales roads minister Duncan Gay announced the contraptions were not welcome on public roads.

The ACCC's statement makes note of this, and advises to check with your local police before you put the balanced pedal to the pavement.

Unfortunately, the report does not address the issue of dinosaurs and other animals riding hoverboards in public and residential spaces. Hopefully this article notifies the body of the missing guidelines in their statement, and it is resolved quickly.  Source: Mashable

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