Monday, December 28, 2009

Being Prepared - Children and Cold Weather

Children are particularly susceptible to the common dangers associated with winter weather. The enthusiasm of youth often overcomes their fear of any danger they may be subjected to during winter weather. This enthusiasm may overcome their ability to recognize potentially dangerous or life-threatening situations that can occur during winter weather conditions. They may also fail to recognize potential hazards such as frozen ponds or streams that could be a potential disaster waiting to happen.

Make sure they are properly clothed for the current weather conditions. If at all possible, make sure to supervise any outdoor activities they may be involved in during winter weather. Make sure that you are aware of any potential hazards and make sure your children know about them as well. It may even be necessary to take steps to prevent their access to certain areas if the hazards are considered too great a risk factor, especially where younger children are concerned. Be aware of any changing weather conditions which can happen at a moment’s notice and create a new hazard during any outdoor activities that children may be involved in during colder weather.

Using a little common sense can make outdoor activities during winter weather a safe and pleasant experience for children if you take a few simple precautions in advance. Being cold, wet and tired can be a very dangerous situation for children without them even being aware of the danger involved.

Staying above the water line!

Riverwalker

6 comments:

Chief Instructor said...

Great suggestions. Little kids in particular don't have the experience to know where NOT to go or what NOT to do. The pond that's not quite yet frozen, etc.

riverwalker said...

To: Chief Instructor

It is quite common for people to forget to watch out for the little ones who don't have the experience to recognize the dangers that are out there. Helping them be prepared can save a lot of grief and avoid unnecessary accidents or problems.

Thanks Chief instructor.

RW

Stephanie in AR said...

Don't underestimate the little mud puddles when children are around. What is just a little damp for adults can make a small child very wet.

chinasyndrome said...

Good info to remember!

riverwalker said...

To: Stephanie in AR

Total agreement! Anything that can get you wet will be a problem in the winter...even the puddles. And what kid is going to walk "around" a puddle when they see one...most of the kids I know will head straight for them!

Thanks Stephanie.

RW

riverwalker said...

To: chinasyndrome

Just a little reminder. You can never be too careful when it comes to watching out for the little ones in the family.

Thanks.

RW

Related Posts with Thumbnails