Safety on the Slopes

When engaging in any type of winter sports activities, it is important that you take the right steps to make your experience as safe as possible. If you have not purchased the necessary equipment to make your skiing or snowboarding experience safe, then be sure to hire the equipment from a ski shop. If you are a member of a ski club, then you should be able to receive a discount on equipment hire. Transceivers are essential for skiers, particularly those who are likely to venture off-piste.

If you decide to go skiing, there are a number of rules, published by the International Ski Federation, which you must adhere to. You must not endanger others skiers in any way and make sure that your skiing abilities match the conditions of the mountain. Space must be provided for any skiers or snowboarders that are in front of you.

If you decide to overtake a skier or snowboarder in front, then be sure to leave plenty of space. Before starting or entering marked runs on the mountain, be sure to look up and down. Make sure that you can easily be seen if you stop on the edge of the piste and always keep to the side of the piste if you are climbing up or down. If you encounter any signs whilst skiing or snowboarding then be sure to obey them in order to increase your safety.

If any accidents occur, then you should do as much as you can to help and contact the rescue service. Be sure to exchange names and addresses if you or any of your group are involved in an accident or if you witness an accident.

If you do decide to venture off-piste, then look out for signs that give avalanche warnings. In case of an accident, it is important you are aware of basic first aid. If you come across a skier or snowboarder who is injured check for breathing and a pulse and provide as much warmth as possible. Do not give an injured skier or snowboarder any food or drink and alert the rescue services, providing information on the location where the accident took place, the name and address of those injured, the type of injury, conditions of the weather and how the accident occurred.

Try to avoid areas that are prone to avalanches. When free-riding, do so with a qualified instructor, as they will be familiar with the surroundings. Many skiers or snowboarders have trouble with trees, so be careful on areas with lots of trees and keep lots of distance between yourself and the tree.