Ilim Manapov, a doctor, points out that tubing is one of the most dangerous winter activities.
“People often choose spontaneous slopes for riding that are located near roads, pits, and snowdrifts. Controlling tubing is impossible,” he adds.
The main problem lies in the lack of control and braking in inflatable tubes. Users cannot control their speed, change direction, or stop in time, which leads to dangerous situations.
Due to the uncontrollability of tubing, victims often sustain serious injuries.
According to Manapov, doctors are recording injuries such as head injuries, traumatic brain injuries, fractures of limbs, spinal injuries, as well as hematomas and, in severe cases, skull fractures.
“A victim may fall without being able to brace themselves, and the impact is on the most vulnerable parts of the body,” explains the doctor.
If an injury occurs during tubing, it is important not to worsen the victim's condition.
As Manapov emphasized, in the case of serious injuries, a person may lose consciousness. In such a situation, it is necessary to:
- lay the victim on their side to ensure airway patency;
- provide access to fresh air and shield them from the cold;
- if there is severe pain, immobilize the injured limb with makeshift materials;
- not move the victim if there is suspicion of neck or spinal injury.
“Improper transportation can lead to additional injuries. If there is no doctor nearby, it is better to call an ambulance and consult with medical professionals. The victim should only be transported by professionals,” emphasizes Manapov.
In emergencies, one should call an ambulance or contact rescuers at 112.
The danger of children riding
Children and adolescents riding without adult supervision raises particular concern among doctors.
Children often choose steep and slippery slopes, underestimating their abilities and the risks. Since their musculoskeletal system is still developing, the consequences of injuries can be particularly severe.
Experts recommend refraining from riding if:
- the slope is poorly visible;
- there is strong ice;
- there is a large number of people;
- the riding occurs near roads, trees, poles, and stairs.
Doctors support active winter recreation but strongly recommend choosing safe and organized sports.
“We advocate for active recreation in winter, but it is important to plan it in advance. We, doctors, treat inflatable tubes and tubing with caution and maintain this position. There are safe types of winter sports, such as skiing, snowboarding, and skating, which are conducted under the supervision of instructors. They teach safety rules and explain how to fall correctly and behave on the slope. Riding on tubes and other makeshift devices without supervision is extremely dangerous and can lead to injuries that leave a person disabled. Therefore, it is better to choose safe places for recreation in advance and prefer official sports,” concludes Ilim Manapov.
