Winter Weather Safety
Winter has reared its head, and while sitting by the fire and drinking a warm beverage sounds great to us parents, most kids want to be out playing in the snow and cold. Following some basic tips can prevent the most common child winter injuries.
According to Dr. Marion Pierson of Village Pediatrics, Prairie Village, “Most of the injuries I see are the result of sledding collisions or ice-skating falls.” Broken bones, bruising and abrasions are common results. However, Kansas City mom Linda advises, “Watch for ice on outside steps because your little kid doesn't know the difference” and can quickly end up with a black eye or a trip to your nearest x-ray machine. High quality equipment is crucial to injury prevention. “This includes using steerable sleds, not inner tubes or disk sleds. Helmets are also recommended,” Pierson says. For ice skating and ice hockey, make sure children wear properly fitting skates. Rinks are safer than ponds for skating. However, if you only have a pond, have an adult check the ice thickness to prevent falling through, and supervise children while they skate. Adult supervision is imperative when children are out on the snow or ice. Serious injuries may lead to abdominal trauma, internal bleeding or head and neck damage.
When to Come Indoors
“When skin is exposed to extreme cold or the skin becomes wet, frostbite can occur,” Pierson warns. “Symptoms include discoloration of the skin, tingling or numbness of the area or burning sensation. Layering of clothing will help avoid this injury.” Experts recommend having moisture-resistant clothing for the outer layers then being watchful for wet clothing and removing it immediately.
Emergencies
- Frostnip: an early warning sign of frostbite. The skin will be white and numb. Bring your child inside, remove wet clothes and slowly introduce the chilled body parts to lukewarm (not hot) water until they are able to feel sensation in that area.
- Frostbite: found on fingers, cheeks, toes, noses and ears. The area will turn a yellowish gray. If you suspect frostbite, take your child immediately to the nearest emergency room.
- Pierson says, “If you suspect someone has suffered a head or neck injury, it is important to keep the injured person from moving.” Immobilizing the child can prevent further injuries to the neck or spine. Call 9-1-1 immediately.
Stacey Hatton is an Overland Park pediatric nurse and mom of two snow bunnies.