29 December 2008
Using Your Noggin While Sledding
Posted by admin under: Equipment .
Enjoy Christmas? I know I did. I was talking to my kids and some of the other Scouts about upcoming outings and one thing came up a few times: snow camp. Snow camp is somewhat of a rarity for the kids in Los Angeles. It’s actually not too far away, but you have to get the timing right to find a snowy camp site within a couple of hours of driving. I love watching the kids zoom down the hills on sleds although one of the guys last time almost gave me a heart attack as he sped directing into a downed tree. I had visions of lacerations and punctures as I ran over to his inert body, but then he sat up and shook his head and then started laughing. Whew! So, when I read the following paragraph over at the Camping Blogger’s site I determined that bike helmets are going on our packing list for the next snow camp in February.
Most of us wouldn’t let our kids ride bikes without their helmets but, when it comes to sledding, we often overlook the fact that packed snow and ice can be just as hard as asphalt. In addition, sleds are not nearly as maneuverable as bicycles, making obstacles such as trees and other sledders much more dangerous. Sled runs often tend to be crowded, as many sledders vie for turns on the best run, making collisions much more likely.
You don’t have to be involved in extreme sports to sustain injuries in the winter, so do your family a favor and follow some basic safety precautions this year. Check the local snow conditions before venturing out and dust-off the bike helmets for a fun, and safe, day of sledding.
I was also interested in this tidbit I didn’t know about before since I don’t think I’ve ever been in a location where avalanches are a possibility. Still, can’t hurt to have a little extra knowledge.
Most avalanches occur during, or just after, heavy snowstorms. Fresh snow does not bond well with the existing snow layer, and the added weight increases the chance that a slide may occur.
- Snow Camp!
- GSUSA: Camp Lakota Snow Adventure
- Cold Weather Blogging
- Snowman Tipping
- GSUSA: Watch Your Space
