Preventing Winter Injuries
Helmet Safety Clinics
Meet Beary Careful and learn how to protect your young ones this winter at a free helmet safety clinic. The Chill Out Team will be slopeside at recreation areas throughout northern Michigan to share information about choosing the right type of helmet and ensuring a proper fit. Stop by at any time during the clinic; a fitting will take just a few minutes.
Need a helmet? Free children's helmets will be provided, while supplies last.
2024 dates to be determined.
Frostbite/Hypothermia
- Wear warm clothing and dress in layers.
- Keep clothing dry.
- Go indoors at regular intervals.
- Do not go out in cold weather when wet.
- Keep your hands and head covered with mittens/hats.
Ice
Sledding
- Always wear a helmet (ski, multisport, or bike).
- Sit (not lay) facing forward, feet first.
- Find an obstacle-free course.
- Sleds with runners and steering mechanisms are best (no disks or tubes).
- Roll off a sled that won’t stop or you can’t control.
- Parents should supervise children.
Skating/Hockey
- Wear helmets and appropriate gear when playing hockey or skating.
- Make sure your skates fit properly and provide good ankle support.
- Skate only where ice has been checked for safety.
- Learn basic skating skills (how to stop and fall properly).
- Never skate alone.
- Always check for cracks, holes, or debris.
- When playing or practicing hockey, make sure you wear the appropriate gear every time.
- Make sure your gear fits properly.
Skiing/Snowboarding
- Take lessons first
- Make sure equipment is in good condition and has been properly fitted to you.
- Wear a helmet that is designed for skiing or snowboarding.
- Never ski or snowboard alone.
- Dress in several light layers.
- Only ski or snowboard in areas that match your ability.
- Know the Responsibility Codes.
- Snowboarders should wear wrist guards and knee pads.
Snow Plows
- Stay away from the road. Snow is thrown a long way from the plow, so it is very difficult for the driver to see people.
- Stay away from the snow spray. Often the snow being thrown by a plow contains ice, rocks, and other debris.
Snowmobiling
- Always wear a helmet, goggles, and gloves.
- Slow down – high speed almost always factors into fatalities.
- Avoid crossing frozen bodies of water whenever possible.
- If you are between 12-17 years old, you must have a Snowmobile Safety Certificate.
- Children should be supervised by an adult.
- Make sure your machine is in good condition.