Winter Activity Safety

 Winter is a great season for outdoor activities, such as fishing, sledding and snowmobiling. Cold weather, ice, and snow can be fun but could also be dangerous. 

The following tips will help everyone enjoy winter activities safely:

Snowmobiling 

• Check trail availability before you go. 

• All snowmobile drivers and passengers should wear helmets designed for highspeed motor sports. 

• Don’t drink alcohol and ride. 

• Watch your speed, as excessive speed is a factor in many accidents particularly during low visibility.

 • Ride with a friend, in case of a breakdown 

• Like any vehicle, snowmobiles have the potential of turning into deadly machines if not handled properly. Know how to operate them safely. Consider putting new riders through a safe operator training program.

 Ice Fishing

• Beware of moving water.

 • Before you leave, tell someone your fishing plans—where you are going and what time you plan to return; notify them if plans change. 

• Fish with a buddy; never go alone. 

• Check with a local tackle store to find out the current ice conditions (as well as how the fishing has been). 

• Stay in communication with your fishing buddies. Use cell phones or radios. 

• Carry at least one full set of dry clothing in a waterproof bag or container. 

• Carry a pair of ice picks and a throw rope. 

• Use a sled to carry your fishing gear rather than a backpack or duffel bag. It distributes the weight over a greater surface area of the ice. 

• Don’t go if you are unsure.

Staying Warm and Avoiding Frostbite

• Dress warmly in several layers of clothing—wear boots, gloves, or mittens and a hat.

 • Set reasonable time limits on outdoor play, and make sure to go into a warm place periodically to warm up. 

• Limit the amount of time that infants are outdoors when it is colder than 40 degrees F because they lose body heat quickly. 

• Know the signs and symptoms of hypothermia and treat it quickly. 

• Certain beverages (those that contain caffeine and alcohol) and medications can make you more sensitive to the cold. 

Enjoy the winter holidays! Stay Safe!