Slip n slide

Backyard snow slides sound like the ultimate winter fun, right? I certainly thought so! The idea of gliding down a snowy hill right in my own yard was just too tempting. But let me tell you, my recent attempt turned into quite the learning experience – and not in the way I expected. Instead of a smooth, exhilarating ride, I ended up with a very sudden, very icy stop that made me hashtag #ouch. It seems there's a bit more to creating a safe and enjoyable backyard snow slide than just pointing downhill and hoping for the best! If you're thinking of building your own backyard snow slide, trust me, you'll want to avoid my pitfalls. My main takeaway? Preparation is key, and safety should always come first. Here are some tips I wish I'd known before my frosty tumble: 1. Choose Your Location Wisely: Not all slopes are created equal. Look for a gentle, consistent slope without any sudden drops, trees, fences, or other obstacles at the bottom. You need a clear run-out area where you can safely slow down and stop. My spot had a bit of an uneven patch that contributed to my unplanned dismount! 2. Build a Solid Base: Don't just rely on fresh powder. Pack the snow down firmly to create a dense, stable surface. You can use your boots, a sled, or even a shovel to compact it layer by layer. This helps prevent soft spots that can catch you off guard and makes for a much smoother ride. I totally skipped this step, thinking the snow was packed enough, big mistake! 3. Consider the Surface: While ice makes things slippery, too much uncontrolled ice can be dangerous, as I discovered firsthand. If you want to make it extra slick, you can lightly mist the packed snow with water and let it freeze, but do so carefully and in thin layers. Avoid creating a thick, unpredictable sheet of ice. A lot of people use tarps or plastic sheeting over packed snow for a more controlled slide, which is something I'm definitely trying next time. 4. Add Side Walls (Optional but Recommended): For beginners or younger sliders, creating snow banks on either side of your slide can help keep everyone on track and prevent them from veering off course into obstacles. It also adds a sense of enclosure and safety, which is great for building confidence. 5. Safety Gear is Not Just for Skiing: While you might not need a full ski suit, consider wearing a helmet, especially for kids. Thick, waterproof clothing is a must to stay warm and dry, and gloves will protect hands from scrapes and the cold. I was just in a casual jacket, and let's just say a helmet would have been a smart choice! 6. Supervise, Supervise, Supervise: Never leave children unsupervised on a snow slide, no matter how simple it seems. Even adults can have accidents (ahem, me!). Make sure everyone understands the rules, like waiting for the person in front to clear the bottom before going down. My experience was a stark reminder that what looks like simple winter fun can quickly turn into a chilly mishap if you're not prepared. But don't let my #ice and #fthis moment deter you! With a little planning and these safety tips, you can transform your backyard into an awesome winter wonderland for a truly fun, and safe, snow slide adventure. Happy sliding, and stay safe out there!