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In just the first few weeks of the winter season, snow has been reported in 49 of 50 states, according to the USA Today. While snow can be pretty to look at, it can also be dangerous to play in.
Before kids jump onto their sleds and find the nearest snow-covered hill, below are some important sledding safety tips from KidsHealth.org that you can share with the young ones in your life.
Sled safely this winter.
Before kids jump onto their sleds and find the nearest snow-covered hill, below are some important sledding safety tips from KidsHealth.org that you can share with the young ones in your life.
- Wear sensible winter clothing — hats, gloves or mittens, snow pants, winter jacket, snow boots — but avoid scarves or any clothing that can get caught in a sled and pose a risk of strangulation.
- Wear a helmet to prevent head injuries – multi-sport and bicycle helmets are good options.
- Sleds that can be steered are safer than flat sheets, snow discs and toboggans.
- Select a hill that's not too steep and has a long flat area for kids to glide to a stop.
- Avoid sledding on driveways, hills, or slopes that end in a street, drop off, parking lot, river or pond. And stay away from areas that have trees or fences.
- Sled on snowy surfaces rather than icy surfaces, which could make for a hard landing.
- Always go down the hill feet first.
- Don’t overload sleds with too many children – one person at a time is best.
- Make sure young sledders stay in well-lit areas under adult supervision.
Sled safely this winter.
