Winter activities

Managing risk with winter activities

Before participating in winter ice fishing, check the safety of the ice by contacting the local DNR to determine the thickness of the ice. (Example – supports walking).
Never risk walking on the ice without determining its thickness and ability to support people and/or vehicles.
Fishing equipment must be available to all 4-H members.
Only adults can use an ice auger.
Only adults can transport a fish house. If using a vehicle or off road motorized vehicle, 4-H members may not drive or ride on the off road motorized vehicle while it is transporting the fish house.
Before participating in this activity, please read Safety When Ice Fishing

Equipment must be the proper fit for height/weight of the 4-H member.
Only ski on approved trails.
Always stay with the group.
Before participating in this activity, please read Safety When Cross Country Skiing.

Downhill skiing and snowboarding are considered high risk activities and not covered under American Income Life Group Insurance. Therefore, Special Activities Insurance must be taken out for both of these activities prior to the event.
For safety reasons, new skiers and snowboarders must take the lesson given by facility staff.
Safety helmets and gear:
- Skiers are encouraged to wear safety helmets.
- Helmets and proper protective gear is required for snowboarding.
- 4-H members either need to bring a helmet or rent one from the facility.
Always stay with the group.
Ensure equipment is the proper fit for height/weight of the 4-H member.
Make sure all 4-H members follow the buddy system and no 4-H member skis or snowboards alone.
Before participating in this activity:
- Skiers need to read Skier Safety Tips.
- Snowboarders need to read Snowboard Safety Tips.

Sledding and tubing are considered high risk activities and not covered under American Income Life Group Insurance. Therefore, Special Activities Insurance must be taken out for both of these activities prior to the event.
Ensure the sledding hill is free from traffic, trees, and foreign obstacles.
It is NOT permitted for 4-H members to do the following: go head first, in tandem, using the chains, or tying tubes together or be pulled behind a motorized vehicle.
Before participating in this activity, please read Safety Tips for Sledding.

Pat Morreim, program manager, morre002@umn.edu, 763-427-5428