Winter wouldn’t be the same without sledding or tobogganing, but safety should always come first when enjoying this classic Canadian pastime. Follow these tips to make sure your family’s fun on the hill is both safe and memorable.

Helmets: Protecting Young Heads

Wearing a helmet is highly recommended while sledding. Head injuries can be serious, and prevention is key. A ski helmet is ideal, as it’s designed for cold weather and similar speeds and falls. If a ski helmet isn’t available, a bicycle helmet is better than no protection at all.

Sled Smart

• Check your sled. Inspect your toboggan or sled before use to ensure it’s in good condition.
• Avoid hard-to-control equipment. Inner tubes and plastic discs are not recommended for children as they’re difficult to steer and stop. Raised sleds on runners or those with steering wheels may be faster but are often harder to control and less stable.
• Choose the safest position. Kneeling on the sled provides the best protection. Avoid going headfirst on your stomach or lying flat on your back, as both increase the risk of serious injury.

Supervision is Key

Young children should always have adult supervision while sledding. They should:

• Never sled alone or at night.
• Use hills appropriate to their age and physical ability.
• Be taught to quickly move to the side after finishing a run to avoid collisions.

Dressing for the Cold

Cold-related injuries like frostbite and hypothermia are common during winter activities. Keep these precautions in mind:

• Dress children in warm layers and ensure their heads, hands, and feet are protected.
• Avoid long scarves or loose clothing that could get caught on the sled or obstacles.
• For younger children—especially under age three—watch for heat loss, as their heads make up a larger proportion of their body size.
• After sledding, get children out of wet clothes and boots quickly to keep them warm.