|
Are your kids safe on the slopes? |
For many children, winter does not mean an end to outdoor fun.
From sledding to skiing, snowmobiling to ice skating, children
find lots to do when the snow starts to fall. Unfortunately, the
cold season can also lead to tragedy if children are not properly
prepared and supervised. Head injuries from skiing or snowboarding
can be an especially dangerous risk. While some ski areas sell or
rent helmets for adults and children, and recommend their use,
they do not require them to be worn. “A properly worn helmet could
mean the difference between a minor injury and severe head trauma
in the event of a fall or collision,” says Adrienne Greene, Oregon
SAFE KIDS Coalition Coordinator. “Parents should make sure that
children wear the proper safety equipment when skiing or
snowboarding, as well as watch their children closely and make
sure that they are dressed appropriately for the weather.”
The Oregon SAFE KIDS Coalition recommends the following tips to
help keep your children safe so they can enjoy a fun-filled winter
season.
Snow Skiing and Snowboarding
In the United States, each year more than 17,000 children ages
5 to 14 are treated in hospital emergency rooms for snow
skiing-related injuries, and nearly 23,000 are treated for
snowboarding-related injuries. With a few safety precautions,
skiing and snowboarding are sports that can be enjoyed throughout
one’s lifetime. Oregon SAFE KIDS suggests these precautions:
- Enroll in at least one skiing or snowboarding lesson to
start off on the right track.
- Use caution when entering and exiting the ski lift.
- Do not ski out of control or go too fast. Follow the rules
of the slopes.
- Be aware of other people on the slope.
- Wear a helmet specifically designed for snow sports, as well
as eye protection.
- Wear sun protection, even on cloudy days.
- Wear warm, close-fitting clothing.
- Never ski or snowboard alone.
Young children should always be supervised by an adult.
Ski Helmet Guidelines:
Over 13,500 ski related head injuries occur in the United
States each year. Fortunately, ski helmets are available to help
protect skiers and snowboarders from suffering serious head
trauma.
The basic elements of a ski (or snowboard) helmet are shown in
the picture above. Wearing a ski helmet can significantly reduce
the risk of death and disability from snow sport injuries. Oregon
SAFE KIDS suggests the following guidelines for parents regarding
ski helmets:
- Be sure to buy a helmet that fits properly. The following
instructions can be used to check the fit of a helmet, however
you should also consult with a knowledgeable salesperson while
buying a helmet to decide on the appropriate fit for you or your
child.
- Position the helmet on the head so that it sits low on the
fore- head.
- Make sure that the edge of the brim is within vision.
- Try removing the helmet with the chinstraps on (the helmet
should not come off or fall over the eyes).
- Bring ski goggles into the store when buying a helmet.
Goggles fit differently with different helmets, so be sure to
purchase a helmet that works well with your goggles.
- Buy a helmet that meets industry safety standards. Look for
a sticker that shows helmets certified as either a recreational
helmet (identified by an ASTM F2040 sticker), or a racing helmet
(identified by an EN 1099 sticker).
- Serve as a good role model for your child. Children who see
their parents wearing helmets and skiing responsibly will be
more likely to do so themselves.
- Most importantly, be sure to purchase a helmet that is
comfortable, and one that you or your child will wear
consistently.
For more information, contact the Oregon SAFE KIDS Coalition,
503-731-4241.
|
