Winter sports usually means slipping and sliding all over the ice and snow and that can cause some boo boos and bumps all over your body. However, there are a couple of tips and tricks that can help you prepare for your wintertime fails. Here are Kidworld's Winter Sports Safety Tips!
Charlie Brown Don't Fall!Courtesy of Peanuts
Free Falling
The best way to avoid injury in the snow or on the ice is to take control of your falls. Instead of waiting for the unexpected fall that catches you in the worst possible body position, you need to slow yourself down first so you control the fall. And when you fall, here are the best ways to enjoy the ride:
- Take it on an angle
- Roll with it
- Fold your body out like an accordion
- Practice falling on soft snow before you get to the ice
Stay Close to Home!Courtesy of Calvin
Heroic Helmets
A concussion is probably the most common injury out there with these high speed winter sports, so it's important to protect your head with a helmet. Even if you're only in your backyard on a toboggan, protect your head! And if you are an extreme sports specialist, it's probably very obvious to make sure you have the proper equipment. Always test everything before you use it:
- Check ropes for fraying ends and tears
- Sleds for cracks and jagged edges
- Skates for loose blades
- Skies and snowboards for loose screws
- Goggles will save your eyes if a snow storm rolls in unexpected
Obey the Boundaries
If there's ever a story about a helicopter search for some lost teenagers on a mountain, it's usually because they decided to have a little fun and ski or snowboard out of bounds. There's a reason why the mountain patrol puts up red flags and out of bounds signs, so the next time you are feeling like having a James Bond adventure, think again! Avalanches, bears, hypothermia... it's probably not worth the risk.
H2O
A full day of playing in the snow, skiing, snowboarding, skating, you might not think about dehydration. It's always a good idea to sip on water even if you're cold.
Breaking the Ice
Global warming is real so just because your town lake froze last year, doesn't mean that it will be safe again to skate on this year. Always make sure that your parents have checked with the parks board. The government has professionals who check to see if the lakes are safe to skate on.
Winter Warmth
OK, it's not that easy to have a great fashion sense outside in the snow. Bulky winter jackets and boots are the most ideal way to show off your beautiful body. However, they might save you from missing the big School Dance if you're home in bed with the flu. Wear warm winter gear in the snow... the cold weather will shut down your immune system and make you vulnerable to viruses.
Stay Warm SpongebobCourtesy of Spongebob
Have Your Say
Have you ever hurt yourself during some wintertime fun? Let us know your story and how your advice!
