Snow Sledding Safety

WHAT ARE THE INJURY FACTS FOR YOUTH WHEN SLEDDING?

• Injuries commonly occur in collisions with fixed objects (e.g. trees and fences) and other people
• Sledding in an area that is open to vehicular traffic significantly increases the risk of severe injury.
• The absence of adult supervision increases the risk of injury.
• Common injuries include head trauma, fractured bones, and contusions or abrasions.

WHAT DEVELOPMENTAL FACTORS SHOULD BE CONSIDERED FOR ASSESSING A SAFE LEVEL OF SLEDDING?

• The cognitive capacity to anticipate, recognize and react to potential hazards
• The good judgment to act responsibly, minimize risk, and react to potential hazards
• The physical capability to climb hills, hold onto a sled, and regulate body temperature.

WHAT FACTORS AND STRATEGIES ARE KEY TO SAFE SLEDDING?

Personal Safety

• Adult supervision
• Limiting activity to developmental capabilities to prevent fatigue and cold exposure
• Wearing a HELMET
• Wearing appropriate clothing to protect from the cold

Safe Environment

• Area free of obstacles
• Designated up and down routes
• Motor vehicle traffic not in proximity
• Adequate snow base with no protruding objects
• Sledding incline less that 30 degrees with a long run out
• Sledding during daylight hours, or in well-lit areas at night
• Providing areas for sledding only

Sled Safety

• Sled constructed of high quality materials without sharp edges that cannot be pierced by objects on the ground
• Sled is ridden in face forward, sitting position
• Sled has controlled direction
• Sled has easily gripped handles

WHAT IS CHILD SAFETY ADVOCATED PLAY IN ADDRESSING SLEDDING SAFETY?

• Practice responsible sledding
• Evaluate current sledding opportunities for hazards
• Promote development of safe sledding environments and use of safe sleds
• Evaluate effectiveness of current prevention practices
• Monitor childhood injury reports / data
• Promote the role of parents in providing sledding safety and supervision