Sledding in safety: Tips for the slopes - FOX 35 News Orlando

Sledding and tubing can be a great way to enjoy winter weather. The joy of speeding down the hill can make it easy to forget that these activities can also lead to injuries. Taking a few safety measures can help keep you and your kids safe on the hills this winter.

Sledding Injury Facts

• Injuries often occur when the sled hits a stationary object or when the child falls off the sled.
• Bruises, cuts and broken bones are the most common injuries.
• Head and neck injuries are common among children 6 years old and younger.

Getting Ready to Sled

• Make sure children are dressed warmly and that they are wearing gloves and boots.
• Sleds that can be steered are safer than flat sheets, snow discs and toboggans.
• Always wear a helmet to prevent head injuries. Multi-sport and bicycle helmets are good options.

Sledding Tips

• Teach children to have an adult with them when they go sledding.
• Avoid sledding in areas with trees, fences and light poles or on rocky hills.
• Always go down the hill feet first.
• Learn how to stop and turn the sled by using your feet.
• Have only the recommended number of passengers on a sled at one time.
• Do not sled in the street or on a highway.
• Never ride a sled being pulled by a car, ATV, snowmobile or other motorized vehicle.
• Avoid sledding on driveways, hills, or slopes that end in a street, drop off, parking lot, river or pond.
• Because they are hard to steer, the best place to use a tube is in a tubing park - often found at ski resorts.

So next time you and your kids hit the slopes, be sure to stay warm and sled in safety!