warm welcome to these ideas from the experts at Shriners Hospitals for Children—their mission to improvelives of children includes helping to keep them safe—on how to protect kids when the weatheris cold and rough. Winter Sports Always wear appropriate and proper-fitting protective gear, including a helmet when skiing, sledding, snowboarding or play- ing hockey. Wear layers of close-fitting clothing; keep scarves tuckedin. Fight Frostbite Be aware of the potential for frostbite, which can be associated with hypothermia and require emergency medical care. Children can be at a greater risk because they lose heat from their skin more rapidly. The areas most prone to frost- bite are the nose, ears, hands, feet, face and head. Appropriate clothing can help reduce the risk of frostbite. Snow Removal According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 16,000 people are treated in emergency rooms annually for injuries sustained while removing snow manually; more than 6,000 while using a snowblower. To clear snow safely: Remove twigs, rocks and toys or other items from your driveway and sidewalks before the snowstarts. Check with your physician and be sure you are healthy enough for strenuousactivity. Dress appropriately, including a head covering, mittens or gloves, socks andslip-resistant shoes. Clear snow early and often and pace yourself; take frequent Parents may have to remind children playing outdoors in cold weather to come in before they get hypothermia. breaks and stay hydrated. Use an appropriate shovel for your height and ability and use proper lifting technique. Don’t twist and throw the snow over your shoulder. eIf you use a snowblower, remember to protect your eyes and ears with safety glasses and earplugs, especially with gas-pow- ered models. Never put your hand inside the machine. If it jams, turn it off and remove the jam with a solid object. Do not leave the device unattended whenit is turned on. eNever add fuel when the engineis running. Stay away from the engine. It can be hot enough to burn. Be aware of the powercord,if using an electric model, so you don’t trip overit. *Never remove any safety devices. Keep children 15 and younger indoors when snowblowers are in use. Learn More Further facts are at shriners hospitalsforchildren.org.
