Preventing Winter Injuries

From ice skating and sledding to skiing and snowboarding, there are endless ways to have fun during the cold months. Beary Careful teaches kids to be smart and safe while having fun, using the simple concept of four things to remember:

1. Dress for the weather.
2. Use proper gear and a helmet when doing something fast.
3. Take a buddy with you.
4. Always ask permission from an adult.

Consider how to apply the four key safety behaviors to your activity of choice and review the additional reminders below.

Frostbite/Hypothermia

• Wear warm clothing and dress in layers.
• Keep clothing dry.
• Go indoors at regular intervals.
• Do not go out in cold weather when wet.
• Keep your hands and head covered with mittens/hats.

Ice 

• Only venture onto ice that has been approved by an adult. (Check out this article from MSU Extension for tips on determining if ice is safe.)
• Adults should supervise children on frozen lakes and ponds.
• Ice on moving waters (rivers, streams) is never safe.
• Learn more about ice safety.

Sledding

• Always wear a helmet (ski, multisport, or bike).
• Sit (not lay) facing forward, feet first.
• Find an obstacle-free course.
• Sleds with runners and steering mechanisms are best (no disks or tubes).
• Roll off a sled that won’t stop or you can’t control.
• Parents should supervise children.

Skating/Hockey

• Wear helmets and appropriate gear when playing hockey or skating.
• Make sure your skates fit properly and provide good ankle support.
• Skate only where ice has been checked for safety.
• Learn basic skating skills (how to stop and fall properly).
• Never skate alone.
• Always check for cracks, holes, or debris.
• When playing or practicing hockey, make sure you wear the appropriate gear every time.
• Make sure your gear fits properly.

Skiing/Snowboarding

• Take lessons first
• Make sure equipment is in good condition and has been properly fitted to you.
• Wear a helmet that is designed for skiing or snowboarding.
• Never ski or snowboard alone.
• Dress in several light layers.
• Only ski or snowboard in areas that match your ability.
• Know the Responsibility Codes.
• Snowboarders should wear wrist guards and knee pads.

Snow Plows

• Stay away from the road. Snow is thrown a long way from the plow, so it is very difficult for the driver to see people.
• Stay away from the snow spray. Often the snow being thrown by a plow contains ice, rocks, and other debris.

Snowmobiling

• Always wear a helmet, goggles, and gloves.
• Slow down – high speed almost always factors into fatalities.
• Avoid crossing frozen bodies of water whenever possible.
• If you are between 12-17 years old, you must have a Snowmobile Safety Certificate.
• Children should be supervised by an adult.
• Make sure your machine is in good condition.