Protect your noggin when playing in the snow

Below-freezing temperatures and snow are forecast in parts of Western Washington in the next few days. Pediatrician Dr. Beth Ebel with the Harborview Injury Prevention and Resesarch Center encourages people to get outside and enjoy the weather, adding that a few simple precautions can keep you safer. 

"The first thing to remember is that half of winter injuries are head injuries," she warns in video soundbites. "So if there’s one thing that I would ask everybody, it's to wear a helmet for all of those sports where it’s appropriate."

That goes for sledding, skiing, snowboarding, or snowmobiling. She suggests that alcohol doesn't mix with activities and sports requiring concentration and balance, and reminds people to dress appropriately for low temperatures.