This past week there were two young Rochester boys that were injured as they were out enjoying the winter snow. A 7 -year-old boy riding an inner tube down crashed into a pole and was knocked unconscious, and a a 12-year-old boy snowboarding went off a jump and injured his back. Hopefully, both boys will heal quickly.
It is important as we head out to the slopes to make sure the sleds that we use are safe and also that the choice of hills is safe.
Hennepin County Medical Center , in an effort to prevent more injuries, provided the following safety tips:
- Choose designated sledding hills with a gentle slope and long run-off area; avoid steep hills
- Avoid ice-covered hills
- Stay away from roads, lakes, rivers, heavily wooded areas, parking lots, etc.
- Make sure the sliding area is free of obstacles
- Be aware of others sliding on the hill
- Dress appropriately – layers are best because they can also help “cushion” any falls and wear a helmet
- Don’t pile too many people on one sled
- Always ride on the sled sitting and facing forward
- Avoid jumps or piles of snow that can cause a sled to become airborne
- Children under 12 should be supervised by an adult
- Children under 5 should be accompanied by an adult on the sled
- Don’t “drink and sled,” alcohol use and sledding do not mix!
- Seek medical attention if you suspect an injury
The boys have already been out a couple of times this season. I hope to get out some more. But lets all do it in a safe and healthy manner. It’s a lot better to end the day getting hot chocolate than at the emergency room.
