Planning your sledding trip to Big Bear
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What could possibly go wrong during a fun day of sledding? Plenty, according to a recent study by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, which recorded more than 15,000 emergency room-treated sledding injuries in 2006. Here’s how to reduce the stats.
Don’t skimp on your sled: Structurally sound models with runners and built-in steering mechanisms are far safer than snow disks, plastic sheets or spare shopping bags.
Dress for the occasion: Stay warm by layering, keep dry with waterproof clothing and use ski-type helmets and eye protection.
Pick the right spot: The most common sledding injuries at Big Bear, says U.S. Forest Service officer Paul Bennett, are caused by collisions with fixed objects, such as trees. Choose an obstacle- and crowd-free
slope that does not exceed a 30-degree grade with a flat runoff that doesn’t end on the street.
Sit up: With your feet in front. Never sled head first.
Stay with your kids: Sledders who aren’t strong or coordinated enough to control their own sled should be accompanied by an adult.
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