Sled riding is great fun but you need to play it smart. So please keep in mind the following tips:

• Wear a helmet. It will protect your brain from getting hurt.
• Dress in warm clothing- including heavy gloves and boots.
• Never sled alone. Take a buddy and be sure there is an adult nearby.

Check your sled to make sure it isn't broken. And always tell an adult if you crash.

• Only use the sled your parents or guardians gave you.
• Never use an inner tube, saucer or disk.
• You can get hurt because you can't steer them.

Check out the area to be sure it is safe.

• Never sled ride in unsafe areas like the street, driveways, rocky hills, or near a cliff or water.
• Never ride into a snow bank- the snow may hide a tree stump or rocks.
• Never sled when it is icy. Ice makes the sled go too fast. Plus, you can't steer or stop a sled when you're on ice.
• Never sled in the dark.
• Avoid overcrowded hills.

Stay in control!

• Know how to stop your sled or make a sharp turn by dragging your feet.
• If your sled won't stop or if you are out of control, roll off your sled and onto the ground. Don't worry about your sled after you roll off, you can get it back after it stops sliding.

Always ride sitting forward.

• Never ride standing or head first. You can hurt your head and neck that way.

According to the American Trauma Society, Emergency Departments see about 55,000 people due to sledding accidents each year. So play it smart and keep in mind the Tips of Sledding Smart!

Resources:

• "Sledding." Retrieved on January 25, 2006 from The Children's Hospital website, http://www.chp.edu
• The American Trauma Society "Sledding Safety" brochure