Sledding: many head injuries, few helmets

Hardly any beginner skiers or snowboarders venture onto the black slopes on their first day. That's because snow sports require practice, and there's widespread agreement on that. But on the sled, everything is different - many just go for it. However, good preparation, the right equipment and a correct skiing technique are also crucial for sledging in order to reach the valley unharmed.

Accident statistics

Every year, an average of 6500 sledders have to go to Accidents medical treatment. Fatal accidents also occur - on average, one person dies each year in Switzerland while sledding. The majority of injuries occur in self-inflicted accidents. However, collisions also occur, for example with people, trees, barriers, posts or cars.

Many unprotected heads

15 % the Sledge injuries affect the head, including severe cranial and Brain Injuries. If you wear a helmet, you run a much lower risk of injuring your head in the event of a fall or collision. However, just under half of sledders ride without a helmet, as a recent survey by the BFU shows. The comparison with the ski slope is striking at all ages: while 99 % of children and young people wear a helmet on snowboards and skis, only 80 % do so when sledging. Of the adults, only 43 % sled with a helmet (ski / snowboard: 92 %).

Toboggan is the better choice

Part of the accidents is due to the choice of the vehicle: Classic toboggans such as the "Davoser" or the "Grindelwalder" are not intended as sports equipment, but for transporting loads. Those who use a toboggan instead can steer more easily and precisely.

Safe sledding means

• Wear a helmet
• Wear high, sturdy shoes with good tread - in icy conditions additionally Braking aids
• Choose marked sledding trails, obstacle-free trails or slopes with free run-off
• Use a toboggan
• The 10 sledding rules of conduct adhere

More info

www.bfu.ch