Sledding and Snow Play

Before going out sledding and other snow play activities, follow these basic rules from being prepared for driving in snow and icy conditions, to proper clothing layers, proper use of equipment, and keeping your family well hydrated.

Sleds & Toboggans

Children age 5 to 9 are the most susceptible to sledding injuries; parents of young children should not let them sled alone
Make sure the sledding path does not cross traffic & is free of hazards such as~trees, fences, rocks, wire, bare spots
Check to see that the incline is not too steep or icy and that there is a level run-off at the end so that the sled can come to a stop safely. Teach older children to check for hazards
Check and make sure your sled is in good condition
Know how to stop your sled and make turns by dragging your feet
If you are going too fast and cannot slow down or are out of control roll off your sled onto the snow.
Do not sled on or around frozen lakes, streams or ponds. The best place to toboggan is a sledding hill in a park
If someone falls through thin ice, use the Non-Contact Ice Rescue
NEVER hitch sledding equipment behind a moving vehicle. The results can be deadly
No one should ever ride while standing up-Always ride according to instructions on device
Many sledding injuries are caused by loss of control into trees resulting in head injury. Wear a ski or snowboard helmet fitted properly and buckled snugly
Do not use snow disks, tubes or plastic sliders because you cannot steer them

Snow Play

From making snow angels to building a snowman, fun in the snow is great for children. But parents need to supervise both children and young teens. Building forts is common among children and even teens, however in the snow (or even in the sand during summer at the beach) is dangerous. Every year children and teens become trapped and buried from snow tunnels and forts collapsing, resulting in suffocation and death. Parents need to keep an eye on what children and teens are doing and to not allow them to build snow tunnels or forts.

THE DANGER OF BUILDING A SNOW TUNNEL OR FORT

If a collapse would happen, parents need to call 911 or have someone go get help immediately. Adults can try to dig a person out of a collapsed tunnel or fort, but only if it is safe, if not, wait for rescuers to arrive.
If someone becomes trapped under snow, after a tunnel or fort collapse, try to remain calm and try to get into a position where they can breathe.

Clothing Layers

First Layer is the layer that is closest against your skin. The best are synthetic fabrics that “wick” moisture away from your skin, keeping you dry. Avoid cotton such as denim pants, as cotton retains moisture that will conduct heat away from your body and make you cold.
Second Layer of clothing are fabrics such as fleece of wool, non-absorbing fabrics that keep you warm.
Third Layer is the outer layer fabrics that are wind and water proof. Gloves (preferably waterproof)

Read more about Clothing Layers

Additional Clothing and Equipment

Boots (preferably waterproof) with proper socks (wool or synthetic-not cotton)
Helmet: When sledding, you have a high risk of head injury. If your head is not protected and you crash into something solid like a tree or rock, can be deadly – Always wear a helmet!
Goggles & Sunglasses: These should always be impact resistant and have ultraviolet UV protection
Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen on exposed skin areas regularly, especially on lips.
Keep hydrated: Drink Plenty of non-alcoholic non-carbonated liquids such as water or energy drinks to prevent dehydration in higher elevations. Read more about keeping hydrated and energy.

Driving in Snow and Ice

Have you driven in snow and ice? Do you have the proper equipment and know how to drive in these conditions? Make sure you and your car are prepared for driving in snow and icy road conditions. Find out more about how to prepare before you leave, driving tips and chain control.