Health Tip of the Month
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Winter sports are a leading cause of injuries
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, almost 213,000 people are treated in emergency departments each year for outdoor recreational injuries. Of those injured, about 51%, or 109,000, were between the ages of 10 and 24.
According to the study released this year, the highest percentage of injuries requiring Emergency Department visits are:
- Snowboarding, 25.5%
- Sledding, 10.8%
- Hiking, 6.3%
Backus Hospital Trauma Program Manager Gillian Mosier, RN, said Backus doesn't see a lot of people hurt on the slopes, because they would go to the hospital closer to the ski resort in an emergency. However, Backus Hospital does treat broken bones, cuts and abrasions from sledding accidents.
"With snowboarding, if you are not wearing a helmet, you are just asking for trouble," Ms. Mosier said. She said it is important to wear the correct headgear and safety equipment to prevent injuries.
The CDC recommends outdoor adventurers prevent injuries by:
- Knowing your skill level and experience and not exceeding limits
- Maintaining fitness levels
- Checking and maintaining equipment
- Carrying a first aid kit (and, if appropriate, a two-way communication device).
- Alerting others about where you are going.