The National Safety Council reports that there are over 30,000 tobogganing and sledding accidents each year in the United States. While sledding accidents tend to result in head injuries and facial lacerations, tobogganing accidents usually result in injuries to the lower half of the body. Although you might not find yourself tobogganing in Asheville, you may be lucky enough to venture somewhere that has snow. If this is the case, being prepared ahead of time can help prevent injuries.
Basic safety precautions- Teach children to slide down the middle of a hill and to climb back up the sides. If children are under 5 years old, have an adult toboggan with them. Show them how to sit forward instead of backwards, head first, or lying down. Practice rolling off the toboggan in the event that anyone is heading for danger. Finally, make sure the toboggan is in good shape and free of sharp edges or broken parts.
What to wear– Always require that children wear a helmet. Adults that want to protect themselves can set a good example and wear one, too. Dress warm, but avoid scarves and other loose clothing that can get tangled up. Likewise, long hair should be tied back. Pay attention to symptoms of frostbite such as a prickly or itching sensation; red, white, pale, or grayish-yellow skin; hard or waxy-looking skin; cold or burning feelings; numbness; clumsiness due to joint and muscle stiffness; or even blisters in severe cases.
Where to toboggan– Toboggan on hills that are free from obstacles such as trees, rocks, or fences. Toboggan on snow and not on ice, which can cause excessive speed. Do not toboggan onto a roadway or into a parking lot, and stay away from water sources such as lakes and rivers. Also refrain from tobogganing when it is nighttime or when visibility is reduced (such as during a heavy snowfall).
What to do if you get hurt- If you do suffer an acute injury, cold therapy using ice can help reduce swelling and limit internal bleeding. Wrap ice in a thin towel and apply to the area for ten minute intervals, allowing skin temperature to return to normal before reapplying. This can help for the first three days, but if the injury does not improve after a couple of days you should consider seeing your doctor. If your muscles or joints are sore after a day on the toboggan, you can apply heat for 15-20 minute intervals. A wet towel is a good option.
Lastly, have fun but know your limits.
