You have made sure your kids have the right kind of sled and properly fitted helmets, you've dressed them warm, and you've picked out a perfect hill for them to sled down. They're ready to go.  Here are a few rules they should follow to keep themselves and other sledders safe:

• Be sure a responsible adult is present to supervise. In the event someone does get injured, there should always be an adult on hand to administer first aid and, if necessary, take the injured sledder to the emergency room. Call 911 for serious injuries, including neck or head injuries.
• Young kids (5 and under) should sled with an adult, and kids under 12 should be actively watched at all times.
• Children should always sit face-forward on their sleds. Never let them sled down a hill backwards or while standing, and make sure they don't go down the hill face-first, as this greatly increases the risk of a head injury.
• Insist that kids go down the hill one at a time and with only one person per sled (except for adults with young kids).
• Don't let kids build an artificial jump or obstacle on a sledding hill.
• Remind kids to keep their arms and legs within the sled at all times. If they fall off the sled, tell them to move out of the way. Teach them that if they're on a sled that won't stop, to roll off it and get away from it.
• Make kids walk up the side of the hill and leave the middle open for other sledders.
• Never allow a child to ride a sled that is being pulled by a moving vehicle.

While it's unlikely that kids will be injured while sledding, the possibility definitely exists. Just take a little extra time to dress them properly and make sure to go over these safety guidelines with them. They'll have a better time, and you'll rest easier knowing you have less to worry about. Sledding is supposed to be fun; keep your kids safe and warm, and you'll ensure that it is!