JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. –
Winter sports are an activity many of us will participate in this holiday
season. These include skiing, snowboarding, sledding, snowmobiling, and
many others. Each of these activities carries their own risks (hypothermia,
collision, frostbite and frost burn, etc) which need to be appropriately
managed.
CASE STUDY: A master sergeantt from the Reserves went to a local ski area to go skiing
with several friends. The master sergeant had more than 13 years experience skiing, participated in sanctioned racing ski events, and wore a helmet while skiing. After skiing 12 runs on an intermediate rated slope, the master sergeant and friends decided to ski a black diamond slope (most difficult). At the end of the slope, the master sergeant maintained a high rate of speed and began a right turn towards the ski-lift. During the turn, he lost control and impacted a tree face first. He received fatal injuries.
Bottom Line: Skiing, snowboarding, snow-shoeing, ice hockey,
snowmobiling and ice skating are activities many of us will take part in
this holiday season. Regardless of your winter pleasure, keep it safe by
following these important health and safety tips for winter sports:
Wear Sunglasses: Sun reflecting off of snow can sunburn the whites of
one's eyes. It's painful and unattractive, in addition to being bad for eye
health. Be sure to wear sunglasses, even on partly cloudy days, if you're
spending time around snow.
Wear Sunscreen: The sun reflecting off the snow can cause a wicked sunburn.
Drink Water: Winter sports can be dehydrating, but the lack of heat often causes people to forget to drink enough, which can lead to nausea and faintness.
Sufficient water can also help to adjust to higher altitudes. So, drink up!
Wear Recommended Safety Gear: Research your activity and follow the recommended guidelines for safety gear. Helmets, pads, eye wear, and more are all worth it.
Maintain Communication: Groups can be easily separated at ski resorts and in the mountains, so be sure to carry cell phones and walkie-talkies to stay in touch. Remember that cell coverage can be spotty to non-existent in the places skiers, snowboards, snow-shoers, and snow-mobilers love, so bring a back up form of communication to keep from getting separated from your group.
Adjust to the Altitude: If you're coming from a lower altitude to a higher one, be careful to listen to your body. Don't overdo it, and be sure to get plenty of water and rest. If you don't have time to gently adjust for a day or two after arriving in high altitude, then take plenty of breaks and listen carefully to your body.