While outdoor sports might be your favorite pastime, if you’re planning on participating in outdoor sports in the wintertime, it’s good to know what you should be doing in order to keep yourself safe. Even the most seasoned outdoor adventurer is no different than the elderly when it comes to hitting a patch of ice you weren’t expecting. But while those in assisted living have someone there to catch them if they fall, you do not. That’s why knowing how to take care of yourself is vital.
To help you see how this can be done, here are three tips for staying safe when playing outdoor sports in the winter.
Learn What Can Make You More Susceptible To The Cold
Although everyone will get cold when they’re outside in the winter, there are some things that can make you even more susceptible to this cold.
According to Pat Hlavka, a contributor to Mayo Clinic Laboratories, while most people know that drinking alcohol can make you more sensitive to cold weather, there are medications and other beverages that can have this same effect. Knowing this, it’s wise to speak with your doctor about any medications you’re taking before you plan on spending any long period of time out in the cold winter weather.
Always Wear Three Layers
Dressing for outdoor sports and activities in the winter can often be challenging. While you are cold when you first get outside, you’ll likely get hot and sweaty soon after you start moving around.
Knowing this, AboutKidsHealth.ca recommends that you always wear three layers of clothes when going out in winter weather. Your first layer should be one that wicks away moisture from your body if and when you get work up a sweat. Your second layer should be one that seeks to insulate your body from the cold. Things like fleece or wool often work best here. And for your outer layer, you’ll want to wear something that blocks the wind or snow from breaching your bottom layers.
Wear The Right Equipment
Most winter sports and activities can be just as dangerous as sports and activities during the warmer months of the year. So although you might think that falling on some fresh powder won’t hurt much, you still need to wear the right protective equipment for whatever sport you’re participating in.
According to Dr. Steven Dowshen, a contributor to KidsHealth.org, when you’re skiing, snowboarding, playing ice hockey, or snowmobiling, you should always be wearing a helmet. This way, you’ll protect the most important part of your body if you should slip and fall on the snow or ice.
If you’re planning on playing outdoor sports or other activities this winter, consider using the tips mentioned above to help you stay safe while you do so.