Sled Safety
Sledding is one of the great childhood memories of winter time. Even the cold becomes exhilarating as you're racing downhill on a snow sled or toboggan. Practicing the following sled safety tips will help ensure your child sleds safely for many years to come. The Hills Are Alive Helmets and Clothing Hypothermia and frostbite are always hazards in especially cold weather, so wear clothing that's temperature appropriate. Sweaters, coats, thick socks, winter boots, gloves or mittens, and a warm hat are all winter essentials. |  |
Location, Supervision, and Equipment
Location is another important part of sledding safety. Avoid hills that are close to streets or bodies of water. Avoid hills that are too icy or steep, and try to find a sledding area that provides a good stretch of flat ground at the bottom for slowing down.
Adult supervision is also critical, especially for younger children. Try to keep younger and older children sledding in different paths. Sliding devices that are harder to steer, such as a plastic snow disk or a snow tube, are also best used by older children.
On the subject of equipment, toboggans and sleds should always be checked beforehand for cracks or splinters. Most sledding injuries involve the head or face, so sledding feet-first is recommended. If multiple people are riding a wood toboggan, remember that increased weight can mean increased speed, so don't underestimate the distance a wooden toboggan can travel. Finally, never attach a mountain sled or toboggan to a car, truck, or other vehicle.
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