Ski Safety

Other Advice Sections:

Skidoo at Scene of Accident

General Advice
  • Follow the F.I.S. code on piste safety (see below) - the vast majority of injuries occur when someone loses control. Make sure you ski/board on a slope and at a speed appropriate for your level of skill. In this day and age, if you break the FIS code and injure someone else, chances are you'll be liable to be sued for damages.
  • Don't be tempted to skip professional instruction - injuries are commoner in beginners and bad habits learnt early on are difficult to resolve later. Even if you have lessons, take time to learn your sport - don't try to do too much too soon! Reducing your injury risk means a combination of proper instruction and experience.
  • Have your own equipment checked regularly or use a reputable equipment hire company as advised by your tour rep or instructor. Don't be tempted to overstate your level of skill - longer skis are more difficult to turn and bindings set too high for your ability are more likely to cause injury. Boots should fit snugly without your ankle moving around inside. If your skis, board, boots or bindings don't feel right, don't be afraid to go back to the hire shop.
  • Warm up and down properly - spend a few minutes gently stretching your hamstrings, thigh muscles, hips and calves before and after going on the slopes. Hold each stretch gently for 30 seconds - it shouldn't hurt!
  • Recognise when you need a rest - most injuries occur after lunchtime when tiredness can begin to set in.
  • Wear adequate clothing, preferably in layers. Don't forget good quality sunglasses, goggles and sunscreen.
  • Helmets make sense - how valuable is your brain?!
  • Avoid excess alcohol - not surprisingly it reduces your reaction time and has a greater effect at altitude
  • Never ski or board off-piste alone. Be aware of the prevailing avalanche risk and, if in doubt, consult a local guide before setting out. Carry an avalanche transceiver and know how to use it.
  • Never attempt to ski or board down a closed piste. Not only do you run the risk of serious injury or death, but you could be prosecuted and be held liable for the costs of any rescue