Depending on where you live, winter months may inspire families to enjoy exciting outdoor activities together. Though the cold may detour some, getting outside for an hour or two helps boost your metabolism, makes you feel more energized and helps you sleep better. It’s also important to ensure you keep your kids safe and healthy while enjoying winter activities.1
Children are more at risk from the cold than adults because their bodies are smaller, and they lose heat more quickly. Children exposed to extreme cold for too long and without warm, dry clothing can get frostbite or hypothermia.2 Children can easily be distracted by having too much fun and may not recognize the signs of dangerously cold conditions. Frostbite happens when the skin, and sometimes the tissue below it, freezes. Frostbitten skin may start to hurt or feel like it’s burning, then quickly go numb. The skin may also turn white or pale gray. When the body’s temperature drops below normal from the cold, dangerous hypothermia begins to set in. A child may start shivering, but then become sluggish, clumsy, or slur words. Below are five winter safety tips.1,2
- Stay Hydrated: Cold air and dry weather can cause dehydration, even if it’s not obvious. Cold temperatures may prevent us from wanting to drink water but remember it’s essential. Hydration also helps prevent coughing and asthma issues in the cold air.
- Wear the Right Clothing: Dress in layers so your kids can stay warm but also move easily. A warm jacket, hat, gloves, scarf and sturdy, non-slip boots will keep them comfortable. Don’t forget sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses or ski goggles.
- Keep Track of Time: Set reasonable limits on the amount of time spent playing outside to prevent hypothermia and frostbite. Make sure kids have a place to go for regular indoor breaks to warm up. After outdoor play, make sure children change out of any wet clothes right away.
- Sledding and Ice Skating: Children should always be supervised, especially younger ones under age 10. Sleds with steering handles and brakes provide more control. Ice skating lessons may be helpful for children who are learning how to fall safely, stop, and turn. Make sure ice skates fit well, and laces are tied tight to avoid unnecessary tripping and falling.
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Appropriately sized helmets should always be worn to help protect children in case they fall or collide with something. Lessons are a great way to teach children how to stay safe on the slopes. Ensure all equipment is safe and fits properly to prevent injuries.
Children always learn by example, so it’s important for adults to wear appropriate gear. By following these tips, you can make sure your kids are safe while having fun outdoors in the winter. If you are interested in becoming a member and gaining access to our Resource Center ($10/month or $99/annually), visit https://advocatefortheinnocent.org/memberships/ to learn more.
1 – https://ptaourchildren.org/six-winter-sport-safety-tips-for-kids/
2 – https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-play/Pages/Winter-Safety.aspx
3 – Photo by juliaf on Freeimages.com