Montreal Children’s Hospital calls for caution as winter storm approaches

A woman pulls a child on a sled during a snowstorm in the town of Hudson, Que., west of Montreal, Wednesday, February 02, 2011. (Graham Hughes / The Canadian Press) (Graham Hughes/The Canadian Press)

As the province prepares to be swept by its first major winter storm in nearly a year, the Trauma Centre at the Montreal Children’s Hospital (MCH) is reminding families to take extra precautions to keep their children safe during winter activities.

The majority of serious sledding-related injuries seen at the Trauma Centre are caused by a child hitting solid objects such as posts, benches, hay bales or rocks.

Many municipalities have taken good precautions to identify suitable hills for this activity, but parents should keep in mind that not all hills are suitable for sledding, a news release reads.

It is therefore recommended to choose hills without obstacles; to avoid hills that end near roads, parking lots or bodies of water; never slide down snowbanks onto the street; and always wear a properly fitted helmet, such as a ski or hockey helmet, to avoid head injuries.

There is also a case for using more traditional sleds and toboggans, which allow for better control, while avoiding crowding on the sled.

Children should always slide sitting down, facing downhill, and never standing or lying head first. Finally, they should stand back once they are at the bottom of the toboggan run to avoid being hit by those behind them.

Snow Fort Safety

Snow forts with roofs or tunnels can collapse and children can become trapped underneath.

The Montreal Children’s Hospital advises families to build only walls, avoiding enclosed spaces; to supervise children at all times when playing in or around snow structures; and to teach older children to always play with a buddy and avoid playing in snow drifts near roads.

Road Safety

Heavy snowfalls mean increased snow removal activities. These large vehicles have limited visibility, and snow drifts can present unexpected hazards.

Parents should remind children to watch out for snowplows and other snow removal equipment and stay a safe distance away; stay off the road when playing in the snow; and never play near snow banks on the side of the road, as they can collapse or hide hazards.

Children’s Hospital experts also stress the importance of always clearing snow from your car before starting it to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

They also point out that children lose body heat more quickly than adults and are, therefore, more susceptible to frostbite.

Remember to dress them in layers appropriate for the weather conditions; immediately remove any wet clothing, such as socks or gloves; and bring the children in regularly to warm up.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published in French on Feb. 12, 2025.