Holiday Safety Tips from Parkland Ambulance

Christmas Fun for Everyone!

The holidays are a wonderful time for fun, family and lots of outdoor activity. With the
predicted warm winter weather, many more of us will enjoy activities such sleigh rides, going
for a walk, toboggan or skiing. Don’t let an incident ruin a great fun day, be safe this holiday!

Parkland Ambulance reminds everyone this holiday to:
     Be prepared when travelling –pack a shovel, cell phone, first aid kit, extra blankets
        and boots and give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination.
     Test the ice before skating, ice fishing or going for a snowmobile ride.
             o   If the ice looks thin and clear –stay off
             o   If it starts to crack when walking go back where you came from
             o   Heavy snow cover may mean the ice underneath is not that thick
             o   15cm of ice is needed to walk
             o   20cm of ice for a group playing hockey
             o   25cm of ice for snowmobiles
     Put food away after the big holiday meal –simple food rules keep cold food cold and
        hot food hot. Make sure you tidy up the food even though the dishes could wait.
     Candies or nuts can be a choking hazard for small children –make sure these are
        kept out of arms reach.
     Dress for the weather –we lose 60% of our heat from our head so a toque is
        essential. Dress in layers so as you heat up from winter activity you can remove a
        layer or two.
     Watch where you are going on the toboggan.
             o   Stay away from roads and railway crossings
             o   Be sure the craft can be steered safely
             o   Be sure the bottom of the hill is clear to prevent collisions
             o   Tuck in strings from scarves or hoods so they don’t become caught on
                 something creating a choking hazard.

         Have a safe holiday –Merry Christmas from
                   everyone at Parkland Ambulance!