Winter sports safety

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. James Fountain
  • 17th Training Wing Safety
Even though summer time increases outdoor sports activities, there's still a lot of folks that won't hibernate like a bear during the winter months. With that, considerations must be made to make sure those non-hibernators make it back to the house safely at the end of the day. Included are some of the more common winter sporting activities and some things to look out for while participating in these fun adventures.

Activities
Sledding
Ice skating
Skiing/Snowboarding
Hunting
Ice Fishing
Football
Snowmobiling

Safety Tips

Wear the proper gear for the activity: shortcuts never lead anywhere positive.

Keep warm: Yes, you could be wearing proper gear, but the item might be proper for the activity and still not stop you from freezing to death.

Know your limits: Cold weather is ideal for creating sudden injuries. An enjoyable activity is not supposed to hurt you; make sure that it's done with a recreational mindset. Don't go out and try to win the Super Bowl.

Prepare: A fool-proof plan isn't required, but thinking about what you are going to be doing, what could go wrong and an idea for a backup plan is highly recommended. Weather, travel, field conditions, hotels nearby, vehicle condition, items to be brought, environment changes, experience and knowledge are all important aspects to consider.

Overall: Use personal risk management to help protect yourself this winter season- think ahead to stay ahead.

As a reminder, don't forget to fill out a High Risk Activities worksheet (AETC Form 410) prior to taking part in any activities that require higher dexterity and agility to perform. If there are questions as to what those activities are, contact your supervision for further guidance.

Here is a case study from a winter mishap:

During a wing winter sports day, an Airman was operating a snowmobile in a snow covered dry lake bed. Knowing that the Airman was an inexperienced snowmobile operator, his crew leader provided him with a short briefing on the controls and safe operation of the snowmobile. The crew leader stressed the importance of staying off of hills because of the rider's inexperience. While coming down a hill that the Airman had climbed on his snowmobile, despite advice not to, he struck a snow covered embankment and received blunt force trauma injuries to his face and neck. The Airman was pronounced dead approximately one hour after the mishap. Alcohol and lack of sleep were not factors in this mishap.