Children love playing in the snow, regardless of where they are. You can take them skiing up the mountains or let them make snow angels on freshly fallen snow in your home’s backyard. Either way, they will need protection for the cold.
Traveling with kids during winter is a different story, though. Parents need to be extra careful because the little ones may not be aware of the dangers of cold weather.
Besides layering up and using thermal clothing, it is ideal for kids to wear Obermeyer ski jackets for outerwear. The thick, lined jackets will help prevent hypothermia while keeping kids safe from clothing hazards such as loose hoodie strings and straps.
Here are a few more ways to keep children safe and warm when traveling or going on vacation during the winter months.
Do not let kids play near the roads
Not all roads are closed to traffic during winter, with the layers of snow adding to the difficulty of driving. Aside from driving on slippery roads, drivers also struggle with visibility issues.
Letting kids play near the roadside can be dangerous since drivers may not see them immediately. Additionally, the slippery roads will make it difficult for them to hit the brakes. Err on the side of caution and let them play only in fenced areas.
Check and recheck their clothes
Besides clothing hazards like scarves and hoodies, kids can easily become either too warm or too cold. Before going out, give specific instructions to come inside if they are cold or wet. Do check on them from time to time, as some children will continue playing in the snow even with the discomfort of feeling cold. Prolonged exposure can result in hypothermia and other health concerns.
Use sunscreen, helmets, and gloves. When skiing, snowboarding, or playing ice hockey, kids should always have sun protection on. The sun’s rays can still be reflected in the snow, so be sure to apply sunscreen on their face and other parts of their body that may be exposed to sunlight. Added protection like helmets also helps prevent injuries while playing sports.
Be wary of nosebleeds, dehydration, and frostbite
Children are prone to winter nosebleeds because of the low humidity and cold air. Using a humidifier can keep the air moist. Interestingly, the dry winter air makes people, especially kids, use up more water through their breath.
This means that even if they do not feel thirsty, children should make a conscious effort to drink more water at regular intervals. Additional fluids can be consumed in the form of soups or hot beverages. It also helps keep everyone warm and cozy.
Finally, check your kids for signs of frostbite after being out in the cold for some time. Check their hands, feet, nose, and ears for blistered skin. Bring them indoors in case you spot some affected areas. Call for medical assistance, especially if the children are cold.
Caring for kids can be extra challenging during the cold months, especially in areas where there is deep snow. However, proper preparation can help families avoid accidents and prevent injuries.