Safe Kids Safety Tips: Winter Safety
Safety & Awareness | January 6, 2023
By Carly Hermes, RN, BSN, Safe Kids Fox Valley Coordinator
According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in 2021, there were an estimated 110,900 winter activity related injuries treated in hospital emergency rooms.
Safe Kids Fox Valley wants to remind you and your family to remain cautious when it comes to participating in your favorite winter activities to avoid being part of a statistic. See tips for staying safe while having fun during Wisconsin winters!
Playing in the Snow
- Wear warm clothing. To prevent hypothermia or frostbite, come indoors periodically.
- Use proper gear including helmets, eye shields and face masks when skiing, snowboarding, or playing ice hockey.
- Be sure to remember to use sunscreen and stay hydrated whether it’s warm or cold outside.
Snowmobiling
- Be sure to slow down. Most snowmobile accidents have speed
as a contributing factor. - Never travel alone.
- Only travel on marked trails. If allowed, ride on the right shoulder of the road.
- Do NOT travel on ice unless necessary. See Ice Safety tips below for more information.
- Always wear a helmet and goggles.
- Be sure to bring a first aid kit.
- Know the law.
Sledding
- Sledding hills should have a soft slope, long run off area, no ice, no obstacles, and should not be facing the road.
- Avoid ramps and/or jumps!
- Avoid a serious head injury by remaining sitting and facing forward at all times.
- A bicycle or multi-sport helmet should be warm. An adult with young children should be on the sled with them at all times.
- Dress appropriately for weather. Layers, hat, mittens, scarves and masks help to keep you warm.
Ice Safety
- Carry appropriate safety gear including an ice claw or pick, a rope, and a life jacket. A first aid kit and a compass are also excellent gear.
- Never go out on the ice alone.
- Carry a cell phone.
- Make sure someone knows when you are leaving, your route and when you plan to return.
- Never travel at night.
- Remain on clear and thick ice; avoid ice with snow or bubbles.
