One of the best ways to beat the winter blahs is to stay active. When the weather in Virginia is chilly, the sky is gray, and your mood is blue, it's smart-and fun-to get out and get moving. Downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, and ice-skating are just a few classic winter sports that make many people look forward to the most frigid time of year. But, like all sports, these winter sports can be dangerous. Accidents are common, and costly. Use the following tips to stay safe during winter sports season, and protect your finances in the event of a mishap.
Wear a Helmet: It may sound a bit excessive or even embarrassing, but helmets aren't just for kids. Adult skiers, snowboarders, hockey players, ice skaters, snowmobile riders and drivers, and even sledders should all protect their noggins with a helmet designed for winter sport activities (not a bicycle helmet!). Doing so can prevent a serious, even deadly, head injury in the event of a fall or a crash into a tree.
Bundle Up: Dress in layers so that you'll have the power to regulate your body temperature when engaging in winter sports and avoid becoming frostbitten and hypothermic, or overheated. Start with a layer of long underwear-the thin, lightweight, and silky kind will keep you warm without adding uncomfortable bulk. Add pants, and a couple of shirts under a jacket-a shirt or jacket can always be removed if you get too hot. If you're going to be exposed to snow, wear water-resistant outerwear. And don't forget warm socks, boots, mittens, and gloves.
Hydrate: Even though the air may seem full of moisture with all that snow around, it is easy to become dehydrated in winter weather during athletic activity. Drink plenty of fluids before you become active, and hydrate when you are done playing. A nice warm cup of tea or hot cocoa is a pleasing post-winter sport treat that will help you to hydrate.
Watch Out for Hypothermia, Altitude Sickness, and Fatigue: Signs of these conditions include sudden distractedness, irritability, or hyperventilation. When these signs show up, it is best to move indoors to warm up and get some rest.
Snowmobile Smartly: Never allow children less than six years old to ride snowmobiles, and make sure all snowmobile drivers are at least sixteen years of age. Again, wear helmets at all times, and drive at safe speeds.
Make Sure You're Covered: Does your current health insurance policy cover you in the event of an unanticipated winter sports-related injury? Contact Robins Insurance to make sure. You should have ambulance and emergency room visit coverage, as well as sufficient coverage to cover any possible hospital stays. Keep in mind that sports insurance is also available, which is ideal for professional winter sports athletes. It covers things like contingent personal accident (i.e. loss of value) and critical asset protection, as well as disability.