Dubai, Jan 20 (Emirates 247) : Colonel Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei, Director-General of Dubai Traffic Police warned residents about the risks of using the airwheel self-balancing unicycle scooter - 'hoverboard' - on public roads.

Col. Al Mazrouei said an eight-year-old Russian boy died while riding on the scooter, when he collided with a vehicle, reported Al Khaleej.

He said in line with the recommendations of the Board of Federal Traffic Council, headed by Major-General Mohammed Saif Al Zafeen Assistant Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police for Operations, a traffic campaign will be launched soon across the UAE to raise awareness about the dangers of using such devices.

The Federal Traffic Council also recommended confiscating these scooters if used on public roads, streets and open spaces, said Al Mazrouei.

The gadget has no balance and, therefore, driving them on public roads and streets, can be dangerous, he said and added that off late it has become popular among children and adults also because it is affordable, he said.

Malls in Dubai have banned the use of the electric scooters and have posters informing shoppers of the risks involved.

Al Mazrouei urged parents not to give in to the demands of their kids.

Another campaign on the dangers of using mobile phones while driving will also be launched, he said.