Winter can be a magical time for kids—snowball fights, sledding, ice skating—but it also brings its own set of challenges when it comes to outdoor safety. As a pediatrician, I see firsthand how important it is for parents to be prepared for the colder months to keep their children safe, warm, and healthy. To be truthful, I can’t say that my teenage sons follow these tips, but it’s not for lack of effort on my part! Here are some key tips for winter outdoor safety.
1. Dress for Success: Layers are Key!
When your child is heading outdoors in the winter, proper clothing is crucial to protect them from the cold and keep them comfortable. The best approach is to dress in layers:
Base Layer: Start with a moisture-wicking layer to keep sweat away from the skin. Avoid cotton as it traps moisture, which can make kids colder.
Insulating Layer: This should be something warm like fleece or down to trap body heat.
Outer Layer: A waterproof, windproof jacket and pants are essential to protect against snow, rain, and wind.
Don’t forget hats, gloves, and scarves! A warm hat that covers the ears is a must since a lot of body heat is lost through the head. Mittens are warmer than gloves, and a neck gaiter or scarf can help keep little faces warm.
2. Keep Moving! Carefully on Slippery Roads and Walkways
Encourage your kids to keep moving when they’re outside, be extra cautious and watch for patches of ice that could cause accidents. Physical activity generates heat, which helps keep them warm. Whether it's playing tag in the snow or building a snowman, staying active will reduce the chances of getting too cold.
3. Be Aware of Hypothermia and Frostbite
While kids love the cold, they’re also more susceptible to the effects of the cold. Hypothermia (a dangerously low body temperature) and frostbite (frozen skin and tissue) are real risks in extreme cold. Be on the lookout for signs like shivering, slurred speech, confusion, numbness, or pale skin. If you see any of these symptoms, it's time to head indoors immediately to warm up. Frostbite can occur on exposed skin, especially fingers, toes, ears, and noses. If you notice skin turning red, then pale or white, and feeling numb, seek warmth and medical attention immediately.
4. Sun Protection in Winter? Absolutely!
Did you know the sun’s rays can be just as harmful in winter as they are in summer? Snow reflects up to 80% of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, increasing the risk of sunburn. Be sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to exposed skin—even on cloudy days or when it's snowing.
5. Know When to Come Inside & When It’s Too Cold to Play
Kids often don’t realize when they’re starting to get too cold, and they might not want to leave the fun behind. Set time limits for outdoor play in extreme cold and encourage them to come inside for regular breaks, especially if temperatures dip below freezing. If temperatures drop below -15°F (-26°C), it’s best to stay indoors. Wind chill can make it feel even colder, increasing the risk of hypothermia and frostbite.
6. Winter Sports Safety
If your child is participating in winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, or ice skating, make sure they’re using proper equipment and gear. Helmets are a must for skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and even sledding. Appropriate footwear is also important for safety. If your child is new to these sports, consider enrolling them in lessons to learn proper techniques.
Winter is a wonderful time to create lasting memories with your children, but it’s important to keep safety in mind. By dressing properly, staying active, monitoring for signs of cold-related illnesses, and using common sense, your family can enjoy all the fun winter has to offer without the worry. So go ahead—get out there, make snow angels, and enjoy the season while staying warm and safe this winter!
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