Preventing Winter Injuries

Adult and child dressed for winter activity, wearing helmetsHelmet 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.