Getting injured sledding in city parks, in resort areas and on streets is common. Sledding injuries happen in people of all ages. But the majority of accidents happen in children aged 14 and younger. The worst fact is - some of the sledding injuries can even cause lifelong disability or death.

You and your family can be safe while having fun by following these safe sledding tips.

• The minimum recommended age for sledding is 2 years.
• Adults should also ride with children aged 5 years and younger.
• Keep an eye on children while sledding.
• Area with a gentle slope that is clear of any obstacles is the best to sled. Make sure the sledding path does not end in a street, body of water or parking lot.
• Do sledding only during the day or on well-lit hills.
• Make sure your children wear a properly fitted helmet. For best protection snow and ski helmets are the right choice.
• Never go downhill headfirst. Sit facing forward and steer.
• Make sure that sledding equipment is safely constructed.
• A sled pulled by a motorized vehicle is not safe.
• Use a sled that has runners and a steering mechanism. It is safer than toboggans, plastic sheets or snow disks, which can be pierced.
• Never forget wearing a helmet to prevent head injuries. You should always wear them.