Emergency Medical Services (EMS) would like to remind parents and children about toboggan/sledding safety tips. Injuries may result from collisions with stationary objects on the hill, such as trees, poles, rocks, or even collisions with other people. Unprotected falls can also result in more serious injury if you lose control at high speeds. However, everyone can be safe on the hill by following these reminders.
Equipment
- Always ensure your toboggan, or sledding device, is in good repair. Inspect it for any damaged or missing parts before each use.
- Be certain the operator is fully capable of staying in control of the sled at all times.
- Wear a ski helmet designed for use in cold weather and high speeds.
Hazards
- Avoid hills that are too steep or icy.
- Choose hills free of all obstacles such as trees, rocks, utility poles, benches, or fences.
- Beware of loose scarves, or clothing containing drawstrings, which could present a strangulation hazard if they become caught or snagged.
- Look out for others. Move quickly to the side after finishing a run and stay to the side of the sliding path when walking up the hill.
- Children should be supervised by an adult; try not to toboggan alone;
- Sledding at night is not advised.
Plan ahead
- Anticipate weather changes and plan accordingly.
- Wear warm, insulating layers closer to the body, and wind/waterproof layers on the outside.
- Consider bringing extra sets of gloves and toques to exchange wet garments for dry ones.
- Take breaks out of the cold to warm up.
- Even when properly protected from the elements, the fingertips, toes, ears, the tip of the nose, and other high points on the face such as the forehead and cheek bones can be affected by frostbite; therefore, attempt to cover up any exposed skin.
- If frost bite has occurred, treat it by first getting out of the cold environment, or at least sheltered from any wind-chill.
- Gently warm the affected skin by placing a warm hand over it, or by placing the affected part in warm – not hot – water until
re-warmed.