As personal injury lawyers, winter is when we often see a spike in clients due to slip and fall injuries or motor vehicle accidents. When we get a break to escape from my desk, we often find ourselves yearning to get outside and enjoy the crisp winter air.
When the sun is out shining and the wind is calm, winter in Alberta can feel pretty magical. To help inspire you to get outdoors, we’re sharing 3 winter activities for you and your family to try safely this season.
1. Skating
Skating is in our blood! And we know that many Albertans are missing both playing and watching their favourite pastime activity – hockey! Though the rules for indoor ice-rinks are continually changing due to COVID, there are a few locations where you can tie up your skates and go for a spin outside. Here are a few of our favourites:
- Victoria Park Skating Oval in Edmonton
- Rundle Park Iceway in Edmonton
- Olympic Plaza in Calgary
- Bowness Park in Calgary
- Fairmont Lake Louise
- Pyramid Lake Jasper
- Elk Island National Park near Edmonton
Note: It is recommended to contact each facility before visiting to ensure rinks are open.
The best way to keep yourself and your little ones safe while skating is to wear a helmet. Although this may seem fairly obvious, many adults and kids choose to not wear a helmet while on the ice.
As kids growing up, some of our parents often let us use our biking helmet while skating. Now that we’re personal injury lawyers, we know that this isn’t the best choice.
Hockey and skating helmets have different safety features and approval processes compared to skiing and biking helmets. This means that although a helmet may be CSA (Canadian Standard Association) approved, you should make sure it’s designed specifically for it’s designated activity.
Here are a few other tips to keep your family safe while skating:
Before skating, check the condition of the ice. Ensure it is smooth and at least 15 cm (6 in.) thick.
Choose a helmet that is CSA-approved and appropriate for your chosen activity.
Dress warm and don’t forget to wear gloves.
Sharpen your skates. It will make skating a lot more enjoyable!
Skate in the same direction as everyone to avoid collisions on the ice.
Children should never skate alone. Get on the ice together as a family and have fun.
2. Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is a peaceful winter activity that can be enjoyed by the entire family. Escape to recreational parks just outside the city limits or make a day trip to the mountains. No matter where you go, snowshoeing is a great way to move while outdoors.
If you are keen to give this a try, it’s important to remember a few things:
Travel in groups of two or more and let a friend/family member know where you are going and when you will be back.
Check the weather and make sure to dress appropriately. Warm snow boots, ski pants, a winter jacket, toque and mittens are a must!
Bring a backpack with snacks, a first aid kit, cell phone, matches, bear spray (cougars and wolves are still out), a headlamp and extra layers.
- Know your route. Especially when snowshoeing in the mountains, it can be easy to get lost.
- Be Snow Smart. This is particularly important while in the mountains as some areas are a high risk for avalanches.
- Give yourself plenty of time to enjoy your activity before the sun goes down.
3. Snowmobiling
If you are looking to get your blood pumping, then snowmobiling should be added to your bucket list! Adrenaline junkies will love the thrill of floating across the snow on a powerful machine. However, there are a few responsibilities to keep in mind when operating any type of recreational vehicle:
- If you’ve never snowmobiled before, choose a licensed tour operator. Banff, Kananaskis and Jasper have a few you can choose from. Plus, snowmobiling with mountain peaks as your backdrop will take your breathe away.
- For snowmobile owners, ensure your insurance is up-to-date and that all passengers are wearing CSA approved helmets explicitly designed for snowmobiling.
- Heading to the backcountry to experience deep powder? Great! But make sure to check snow conditions and avalanche risks, which are common in the mountains.
- Snowmobile in groups of two or more, and make sure to inform a family or friend of your adventure plans, including when you will be back.
- Dress for the weather and avoid wearing loose clothing or scarves that could catch on a branch.
- Carry a first aid kit, cell phone, and emergency flares.
- Children and teens under the age of 16 should not operate snowmobiles. Kids under the age of 6 should never ride as a passenger due to the strength required to hold on for long periods.
- Never drink or use non-prescription drugs while operating the snowmobile.
- Ride during the day and be cautious of dangers in ditches like steep slopes, hidden debris (tree trunks) and culverts.
With only a few more months left of winter, we challenge you to get outside, enjoy the fresh air, and stay safe!
If you or a loved one is in an ice skating, snowshoeing or snowmobiling accident, reach out to our personal injury team at McGuiness Law. We can provide guidance and support during a difficult time and always work in your best interest.
Not sure if you have a valid claim? Contact our team for a free consultation by calling (780) 900-7941.