Winter Sports Safety
Now that the snow has arrived, winter sports such as sledding, skating and skiing are a fun way to maintain a healthy lifestyle. While enjoying these winter sports, Niagara Emergency Medical Services recommends a few simple precautions to help keep safer during winter sporting activities:
Use a proper helmet. The majority of serious injuries are to the head. Wearing a sport-specific helmet is the most important- and easiest way to increase safety in winter sports.
Scope out the route. Skate, ski or sled in designated areas and always stay on marked trails. Be sure to walk the route to be certain there are no obstacles that could cause a collision or injury.
Do not participate in winter sports when weather conditions could pose a hazard.
Wear appropriate clothing for the sport.
Use only a sled that can be steered. Do not go down a slope head first.
If possible, participate in winter activities with a friend. Though injuries may still happen, a friend can assist in getting medical attention or calling 9-1-1 should a serious injury occur.
It is important for a parent or other adults working with children to role model positive safety habits. If an adult wears a helmet while participating in winter activities such as skiing and sledding, it reinforces this important behaviour to the children.
