There’s nothing better than sledding down a snow-covered hill in the winter!
But before your kids head out the door, it’s important to keep safety in mind. More than 20,000 kids under the age of 19 are treated in emergency rooms for sled-related injuries each year in the United States.
With fractures, concussions, and abrasions being the most common injuries, here are some things you can do to help keep them safe:
1. Wear a Helmet
Like bicycles, sleds can easily reach speeds of 20-25 miles per hour when headed down a steep hill. Helmets are shown to be effective for head protection during winter activities.
2. Dress For Success
- Dress your children in layers for extra warmth, and if their clothing becomes wet, bring them inside.
- Watch out for signs of frostbite. Early signs can give the skin a white, gray, or bluish hue and typically affect the fingertips, toes, and face. The skin can feel waxy, frozen, and numb, and can cause blisters.
- Encourage your kids to come inside periodically to make sure they’re warm enough.
- Don’t forget the sunscreen and sunglasses! It may seem odd, but the sun’s harmful rays can be dangerous despite below freezing temperatures.
3. Supervise Your Kids And How They Ride
Adult supervision is the key to reducing sled-riding injuries. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) statistics show that 71 percent of unsupervised sled outings result in injuries. Ensure your kids ride:
- Seated with their bottom on the sled, riding feet first down the hill – not head first.
- With only one passenger to a sled.
- Using only their body weight’s momentum – don’t tie a sled to the back of a bike, ATV, or car.
4. Find a Safe Hill
Finding the right hill is important:
- Pick a slope that doesn’t end in a street, parking lot, or pond. Both sleds and cars have a hard time stopping on slippery surfaces. Frozen ponds might appear solid, but may not be strong enough to hold your child’s weight.
- Look for a hill free of trees and unexpected holes.
- Identify a safe route uphill to avoid downhill sledders.
5. Don’t Use Sled Substitutes
Cafeteria trays and cardboard boxes may seem like cheap alternatives to sleds. However, they were not designed with a steering mechanism, making it difficult to avoid collisions.
Make safety a priority this year by following our practical tips for safe sledding. For more safety tips contact our Comprehensive Children’s Injury Center.
