What happens if my child may have a concussion?

Alpine Canada's Concussion Safety Policy (May 2024) says an athlete with a suspected concussion or traumatic head injury must be removed immediately from sanctioned training, practice, camps, competitions or tryouts by the medical delegate or the coach overseeing the event. The athlete cannot take part again until evaluated and cleared by an Alpine Canada physician trained in concussive head injuries. Athletes, staff and volunteers all have a duty to report suspected concussions.

Alpine Canada's concussion guidance adds:

• Stop training or competing right away. Training or competing with concussion symptoms is dangerous.
• Get medical attention straight away.
• Red flags (call ski patrol or 911) include loss of consciousness, seizures, repeated vomiting, neck pain, severe or increasing headache, double vision, slurred speech, weakness or tingling, and growing confusion.
• If a child is unconscious, do not move them or remove their helmet, in case of a spinal injury.
• Return is a short rest followed by a gradual return to activity under the supervision of a medical professional. Symptoms usually last one to four weeks but can last longer.

Sources: Alpine Canada Concussion Safety Policy (alpinecanada.org/safe-sport) and ltad.alpinecanada.org/news/concussion-facts-you-need-to-know.