Sledding is a popular winter sport. However, it can also result in injuries, some of which are serious. Follow these safety precautions when sledding.

Make Use of Protective Equipment
Injuries can be avoided with the correct equipment. Make certain that everyone who is going sledding has:

A safe sled: Choose a sled with brakes and the ability to maneuver.

A helmet is recommended for winter activities, although a bike helmet is preferable to no helmet.

Wear a hat, gloves or mittens, snow trousers, a winter jacket, and snow boots to keep warm. However, don't wear a scarf because it can get trapped in the sled.

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Locate a Secure Location
Choose a secure location to sled:

Look for a hill that isn't too steep and has a large flat stretch at the bottom so you can glide to a stop.

Hilltops that finish near a street or parking lot should be avoided.

Avoid hills with ponds, trees, fences, or other hazards at the bottom.

Make sure there are no bumps, rocks, poles, or trees in the sledding path on the hill.

Sledding is best done during the day. Make sure the path is brightly illuminated if you're going sledding at night.

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Be Safe While Sledding
To stay safe while sledding:

Have a responsible adult present in case anyone is injured.

Young children (5 and under) should be accompanied by an adult, and children under the age of 12 should be supervised at all times.

On their sleds, everyone should sit with their feet downward, facing front. Face-first descents down the hill can result in serious head injuries.

Standing on a sled is never a good idea.

Everyone should descend the hill one at a time, with only one sled per person (except for adults with young kids).

Always keep your arms and legs inside the sled.

If you're on a sled that won't stop, you should roll off of it.

Walk up the side of the hill and leave the middle open for other sledders.

Don't ever pull a sled with a moving vehicle (like a snowmobile or all-terrain vehicle).