Go kids

BERNICE HARRISONOn Alternatives To Movies And The Mall

DIY sledging

With so many events cancelled because of the unusually cold weather, this weekend is all about making your own entertainment – and taking advantage of fun to be had on the snow. If you live near a hilly area – even a gentle incline will do – then sledging is the way to go. Scout around the house for a likely sledge (a flat bin lid, a sheet of scrap plywood or a large piece of hard plastic) or make your own out of cardboard.

- For the Cardboard Box Derby in Colorado sledge makers can use only cardboard, string, glue and tape. So first raid the green bin for large boxes left over after Christmas. Corrugated cardboard is stronger than the flat variety. Cut a basic rectangular shape, rounding the front edge. Avoid folds, as they compromise the strength of the sledge. Add a rope or string as a handle by tying one end to each side at the front. Reinforce the holes with packing tape to prevent tearing when the sledge is in use.

And off you go – but remember that, although sledging is free and easy, there are rules:

– Children should always be supervised.

– Never sledge down hills that lead to a street or to water.

– Don’t sledge on ice (and never skate on iced-over lakes or ponds).

– Sledge only in daylight.

– Wear a helmet (even a bicycle helmet).

– Don’t lie down head-first.

– Keep an eye out for other sledgers, as collisions are dangerous.

– Pick an area you know, so you have an idea of what’s underneath the snow.