Bruises on the knees, wrists or elbows, cuts and lacerations, but also serious fractures or concussions: around 5,000 people are injured every year while skating, so seriously that they have to consult a doctor. Slightly more than half of them are children and young people. Reason enough to ask the experts at the Road Safety Council how everyone can best protect themselves when ice skating.

• Is the ice carrying me? If the temperature is just below zero for several days, ponds and lakes are no longer safe! In the event of a thaw, snowfall or poor visibility, it is best to avoid driving on lakes and ponds. Danger of burglary! Obvious signs of this are cracks, air bubbles or pops. Avoid dark ice surfaces! They are usually too thin. Try the edges first to see if the ice cream will hold. When you are on the ice, there should be no ice movement. Tip: Before skating, ask the municipality if skating is allowed. Pay attention to signs and prohibitions at ponds and lakes.
• Go ice skating with a friend. If something happens, someone can get help.
• Caution! Beware of tripping hazards such as branches or other bumps on frozen ponds and lakes.
• Wear a helmet, preferably a ski helmet: this way your head is well protected in the event of a fall.
• Warm-up: Before ice skating, briefly warm up the muscles with arm circles, squats, hip swings, etc. This makes injuries less likely.
• Control your speed: Drive as fast as you dare and make sure you can brake at all times.
• Be considerate of others, especially slower skaters and beginners.
• Take regular breaks!
• Falling correctly: If you fall, it means “let go!” “. Let go of your girlfriend, boyfriend or mother’s hand. This way you don’t drag others down with you. You can even learn how to fall correctly in beginner courses.
• Follow the rules of the field and keep your distance from other skaters.