Rather than complaining about the amount of snow we’ve had this winter, why not have some fun with it? Kids seem to intuitively know how to enjoy snow — whether it’s snowball fights, snowmen, snow angels, snow forts, or (everyone’s favorite) sledding.
Many of us adults, though, only drive through it, shovel it, and blow it, which doesn’t do much for our winter spirit. It’s no wonder so many people dread snow and experience seasonal blues. But spending even a little time outside with your kids can lift your mood, give you some exercise, and remind you why winter can be one of Michigan’s greatest seasonal gifts.
I have incredibly fond memories of waking up on a snow day, gathering my buddies, and heading straight to the nearest sled hill for hours of fun. Many adults still enjoy sledding today — even if our role has shifted to sending our kids flying down the hill or holding onto them for dear life as we zoom down together.
But being a parent — and a sports medicine physician — has changed my perspective. Sledding should be fun, but it also needs to be safe. Thousands of youths and adults are injured every winter while sledding in parks, streets, and resort areas. The good news? Most sledding injuries are preventable.
Let’s take a moment to look at some common sledding injuries and how to avoid them.
Common Sledding Injuries
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, about 75,000 sledding, snow tubing, and tobogganing injuries are treated in hospitals and clinics each year. While many are minor bumps and bruises, some can be serious enough to cause lifelong disability.
The most severe injuries typically occur when a sled collides with a fixed object like a tree, rock, or fence. Young children, especially those 14 and under, experience the highest number of injuries because of their proportionally larger heads, higher centers of gravity, and still-developing coordination.
Essential Sledding Safety Precautions
Choose a safe sledding location
Only sled in designated, approved areas free of trees, posts, fences, or other obstacles.
Make sure the run-out does not end in a street, parking lot, drop-off, pond, or other hazard.
Never sled on public streets — the first big snowfall makes this tempting, but it’s extremely dangerous.
Provide adult supervision
Parents and adults should monitor sledding areas to ensure the path is clear and that too many riders aren’t going down the hill at once. A little “sledding organization” goes a long way toward preventing collisions.
Never sled headfirst
Always sled feet-first, sitting upright, steering with your feet or a rope. Headfirst sledding dramatically increases the risk of head and neck injuries.
Preferred (but strongly encouraged) Safety Tips
- Helmets for young children
A well-fitted helmet can significantly reduce injury risk.
- Choose a steerable sled
Sleds with runners and steering mechanisms are safer than snow discs or toboggans.
- Sled only in well-lit areas at night
Visibility is key to avoiding obstacles and other sledders.
- Avoid flimsy plastic sheets
They can be pierced by hidden objects and are nearly impossible to steer.
- Dress in warm, layered clothing
Layers protect against both the cold and minor injuries.
Enjoy Michigan’s Snow — Safely
Have fun out there! Sledding is one of the great winter traditions we Michiganders get to enjoy. With a few simple precautions, you and your family can make the most of the snow while staying safe all season long.
For more information on orthopedic injuries, as well as ways to prevent and treat them, visit www.miorthosurgeons.com
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Dr. Joseph Guettler is an orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine and surgery of the knee, shoulder, and elbow. He is also a proud member of Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons.