Sledding Safety

Johnson Law, P.C. — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 19:14:48 GMT

Sledding Safety – In Alaska, sledding isn’t just an activity – it’s part of winter culture. Sledding is especially great in Alaska because the state naturally creates some of the best conditions in the world for winter fun. Alaska’s landscape is full of rolling hills, mountains, riverbanks, and wide-open spaces. Unlike flatter regions, many Alaskan communities naturally have long, steep slopes perfect for exciting sled runs.

In addition, Alaska has one of the longest winter seasons in the United States. Throughout Interior Alaska, snow can stick around from October through April. Sledding is great fun. At the same time, it can also be dangerous for both skilled and amateur participants. The key is sledding safety to avoid injuries.

Sledding Injuries

Sledding can lead to injuries when participants fall off sleds or are hit by another person’s sled. It is common to get bruises, cuts or broken bones. When sledding, hold onto handles tightly and do not let go until your sled comes to a stop. Do not take on hills or slides too big for your size and experience. Parents should monitor which hills and slides children use to ensure they are sledding safely.

Check Your Surroundings To Increase Sledding Safety

When sledding, increase safety by checking the area for rocks, buried tree limbs or other objects that may cause an injury to occur. Look around to make sure that you know where fences, light poles and trees are located to avoid colliding into stationary objects. Never sled in areas prone to ice fog.

Before sledding down a hill or slide, check the path to make sure you will not hit anyone standing or walking nearby. If you are walking in a sledding area, sledding safety is your responsibility too. Stay alert and out of the sled paths. Watch small children and do not allow them to run into sled paths.

Dress Accordingly

Dressing warmly is necessary and can extend your sledding time as well as increasing safety. Dress in layers. Gloves, hats and jackets will ensure that you do not get too cold. Wear waterproof gear when possible to ensure you do not get too cold after being outside for an extended period. Helmets are a good idea for sledding and protect from head injuries in case of collisions. Goggles can also be handy to avoid snow or other items flying into eyes and causing vision problems.

Sledding Safety Techniques

It is best to go down a hill or slide with your feet first. Sliding downhill on your stomach makes it difficult to stop. You can stop sleds by using your feet but never stop on an ice slide as your legs can catch the slide, causing injuries.

Ensure you and your children do not misuse sleds. Use sleds designed for one person with only one rider at a time. Do not pull sleds at high speeds with bicycles, snow machines, ATVs, or other vehicles. Throw away broken sleds and replace them instead of continuing to use them.

Sledding is fun for people of all ages but can be dangerous when not taken seriously. Practice safety when sledding and never assume that others are looking out for your safety.

If you or a family member is injured while sledding due to another person’s negligence, you may need to hold that person responsible. Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for 30 years. It’s who we are. Call Johnson Law at  (907)277-3090 or use our Contact Form to discuss your Alaska accident injury case. We are here to serve you.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Image created using ChatGPT – Prompt: People enjoying sledding in Alaska

Alaska Winter Fun

Johnson Law, P.C. — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 16:31:11 GMT

Alaska Winter Fun – Winter is well underway in Alaska, bringing snow and cold weather fun. Whether you want to play in the snow, curl up next to the fireplace or celebrate winter in classic Alaska form, be safe, stay warm, and have fun this season.

Be Safe In Alaska’s Winter Weather

Wear appropriate gear for Alaska’s winter weather. Size and fit matter, having equipment that properly fits can prevent or reduce the severity of injuries. When participating in sports such as skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and even sledding, be sure to wear proper protection and always wear a helmet.

Stay hydrated and encourage children to drink water throughout the day while enjoying Alaska winter fun. Children are at a greater risk of dehydration, even more-so when playing in extreme temperatures. Also be aware that on sunny days it is still important to apply sunscreen to exposed skin.

Stay Warm Outdoors

Dressing in layers is key to staying warm when going outside into the cold and snow of Alaska’s winter weather. It’s just as important when playing sports or participating in outdoor activities in the winter, as layers can be removed if needed. Wear water-resistant outer layers to stay dry.

Staying warm is essential to preventing frostbite and hypothermia. Bring kids indoors periodically to warm up as children lose body heat more quickly than adults.

Have Fun In Alaska’s Winter Weather

Get out of the house and have fun this winter with friends and family. Take a class to learn to snowboard, ski, ice skate, or snow shoe. Try playing hockey or learn curling. Start a snowball fight, make a snow angel or snowman, or go sledding or tubing. There are many ways to stay active and enjoy being outside even during the winter months.

Children are some of the most at-risk individuals during winter. They love being outside, but with the Alaska winter fun of outdoor activities comes danger. While parents generally put their children’s needs first, that is not always the case when children are with others. For instance, a child in school should be monitored. If they are on the playground, it’s important for someone to watch to make sure they do not get hurt.

Keep Children Warm

In Alaska’s winter weather, it is even more important to watch children, since temperatures can drop dramatically resulting in hypothermia or frostbite. It is always a good idea to keep your children in warm areas or near warm areas when they’re playing.

Another risk to children in Alaska’s winter weather is use of snowplows. Remind your child to stay away from the streets on days when they are home from school. If they run into the street or are playing in snow piles, it’s possible they could be hit by a snowplow.

If they are meant to be inside for a play date and you find out your child is sick or suffering from hypothermia because the other person didn’t let him or her inside, this could be constituted as negligence. The same is true if a school has no heat and decides to continue with class despite risks to the children. Remember, if someone who is supposed to keep your child safe in Alaska’s winter weather and doesn’t, you could have a case against that individual for negligence. Your attorney can help you decide if you should pursue the case.

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are.