The Daily Orange Editorial Board unanimously supports Syracuse University’s temporary ban on the possession, storage and use of hoverboards on campus due to evidence that the devices are prone to catching on fire.

The ban comes after a federal block on the sale of hoverboards by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) until the technology meets safety standards. The measure followed a statement from CPSC announcing the investigation of “dozens of fires involving hoverboards” in January.

The university’s decision to prohibit hoverboards is a practical move made on precautionary grounds, considering the safety risks the luxury items could pose to the campus community. The measure, and the formal warning that will be given to those who defy the rule, should be accepted by the university community as a rational effort at a time when hoverboards are not a necessity by any means and are a source of valid safety concerns.

Some may protest the ban because other modes of transport, such as cars, also pose a danger to the surrounding area. And while individuals should work to protect their rights, it is important to acknowledge that SU, as a private university, made an informed decision to put the safety of students, faculty and staff before a developing technology that has yet to meet national safety standards.

More than 30 institutions have barred the use of hoverboards on university property, according to an SU News release. And it was responsible of SU to join them. In cases involving safety, it is important for action to be taken before potential injuries occur so the university can stay ahead of the curve.

It is easy to talk about these hazards in theory, but, in reality, they pose a tangible risk that could endanger the well-being for members of a highly-populated area like SU and create room for lawsuits against the university.

Hoverboard technology is still working to find its footing among college students. But in the meantime, the devices should be viewed as luxury items that fall under university jurisdiction and nothing more.

Published on February 28, 2016 at 10:47 pm

Contact: opinion@dailyorange.com