While sledding is often viewed as one of Colorado’s tamer sports, it does carry its risks, especially when high speeds and terrain become factors.

According to a report by the Boulder County Sheriff’s Office, a sledding accident occurred in Chautauqua Park on Tuesday that was bad enough to require a search and rescue operation.

Cody Jacobs, 23-year-old male, was sledding down a hill when his trajectory went off course, sending him careening into a large rock. His lower body was injured as a result, prompting a friend to dial 911.

Over the course of the next hour and fifteen minutes, a search and rescue team arrived and was able to locate Jacobs, soon transporting him to a hospital-bound ambulance for medical evaluation. Injuries that were sustained have not been publicly released.

If you’re hitting the sledding hill this winter, try to do so in a designated area that’s free of obstacles. Because sleds are difficult to control – both speed and direction – they can become quite dangerous in certain conditions. Enjoy this winter activity, but as with any outdoor recreation sport, do so responsibly.