Safe Snowboarding

There is so much fun to be had in winter sports. Few of us can forget the exhilaration of riding a sled or snowboarding down a giant hill, the cold wind rushing in our faces. But while the joys of winter sports are immense, bear in mind that it is so easy to get injured. It pays to bundle up for the ride with safety in mind. Here are some precautions.

* Make sure you are dressed for safety. Like ski clothes, there are appropriate snowboarding outfits that you can use for outer garments. Dress in several layers of tops and pants before putting on the snowboarding jacket. Don’t forget the proper mittens and boots.

* If you are still shopping for snowboarding wear, go for water- and wind-resistant fabrics. Garments with collars that cover the neck completely will be beneficial for wind resistance.

* Have the proper equipment. Everything you use should fit just right. Smaller kids may be tempted to use equipment that belonged to older siblings, hoping to grow into the gear. This should be discouraged: equipment that is too big will be more difficult to control.

* Make sure boots are just the right size. Kids should use boots designed for kids; these are more flexible compared to adult boots. Parents must check the bindings of boots and snowboards. Boots that stay attached to the board during a fall are likely to cause ankle injuries.

* Use sunscreen. It seems odd to use sunscreen in winter but it is absolutely necessary (SPF of at least 15). Sunlight will bounce of all the white snow and ice onto your face, and can cause ‘sunburns’ as easily as a summer sun. Also apply lip balm with sunscreen.

* Have eye protection. Goggles protect the eyes not only from the glare of sunlight but also from objects that might poke you in the eye (such as twigs and branches).

* Wear a helmet. Safety helmets are simply necessary for snowboarding. You never know when a fall will happen and you want your head to be protected. Use of a helmet can reduce the chances of head injuries by almost 50 per cent.

* Put on some padding. Snowboarders should use kneepads and elbow pads for protection against falls. Those who are just learning to snowboard may want to wear snowboarding outfits with specially padded pants to help cushion falls.

* If you’re new to the sport, get some lessons before you start. Qualified instructors can teach you to avoid getting hurt.

* Avoid collisions. Be aware of movements of other snowboarders and learn how to share the snowboarding hills and trails with them.