October 30, 1999

Dallas City Council

1500 Marilla Street

Room 5FN

Dallas, Texas 75201

Dear Council Members:

During a recent meeting of the Dallas County Chapter of the American Association of

Critical-Care Nurses,  it came to our attention that there is an attempt to repeal the current

ban on in-line skating on Dallas city streets. Several members of the specialty

organization for the local chapter of critical care nurses discussed our overwhelming

support for the current city ordinance and feel that there are many safety hazards that

could potentially occur if it were changed.

In researching the safety issues surrounding in-line skating we discovered several

important facts that support our position. Data obtained from the Dutchess County

Department of Health reported in 1995, that emergency room nationwide treated

100,000 people for in-line skating injuries. The report states that between 1992 and

1996, forty-seven people died from in-line skating injuries. A recent Health Watch report

suggested that nearly thirty-three percent of all in-line skaters wore no protective

equipment. Even though protective equipment is suggested for those engaging in this

activity.

In an ongoing attempt to educate our community and promote wellness, we urge you to

keep this recreational activity off downtown Dallas city streets. Instead, we advocate a

safer environment where it is imperative for all in-line skaters adhere to safety rules to

keep the activity as enjoyable and injury-free as possible.

Respectfully,

Dave Hanson, BSN, RN, CCRN, EMT-P

President

American Association of Critical-Care Nurses

Dallas County Chapter