Winter fun brings joy
It is difficult to imagine winter without active recreation, and recreation without sleds. Today, inflatable sleds, or as they are also called, tubing, have become popular. However, it is important to remember that when riding, you need to be extremely careful and cautious when using tubing.
The so-called "vatrushka" (tubing) can reach speeds of up to 40 kilometers per hour and unexpectedly spin around its own axis. At the same time, it moves without brakes and cannot be controlled.
The design of inflatable sleds is simple: a car inner tube is placed inside a special shell. The shell glides perfectly, does not absorb moisture, and is quite durable. The inner tube inside the shell acts as a shock absorber, allowing you to not feel the unevenness of the slope.
However, for tubing, it is best to choose gentle snowy slopes, preferably without obstacles. Moreover, you should not choose slopes with jumps: upon landing, the inner tube inside the "vatrushka" springs, which can lead to injuries of the back and cervical spine. Therefore, "vatrushka" is more for thrill-seekers than for children.
The inability to control the tubing during descent imposes certain restrictions on where it can be used. It is recommended to ride on slopes with an inclination of no more than 20 degrees, and there should be enough space at the bottom of the hill for braking. Also, you should not choose slopes overgrown with bushes and trees to prevent punctures or cuts to the tubing. Slopes near water bodies, as well as railway and road tracks, will also be unsafe.
Before starting a descent on an unprepared track, inspect it for pits, bumps, protruding bushes, and stones. Also, do not ride on sand or gravel. Pay attention to other riders. Do not ride while intoxicated. You should ride on "vatrushkas" while sitting.
When riding on a tubing, remember the safety precautions:
- do not brake with your feet. Due to the high speed, there is a high risk of leg injury;
- do not ride in a group, one after another. Wait until the person in front of you leaves the track, then start moving;
- upon completion of the descent, try to leave the skiing area as quickly as possible;
- use protective helmets: bicycle or roller skating helmets are suitable. It is especially important for children to wear them.
By following these rules, you will protect yourself and others. And winter fun will bring joy. And remember that leaving children unattended is strictly prohibited.
Inspector of SPIVO of Miory District Emergency Situations Department O.M. Girzhda