You're no doubt eager to hit the slopes, relax and make the most of every moment! But it's important to know how to behave in order to ski safely. Skiing is a truly extraordinary sport, but it can be very dangerous when risky behaviour is involved and safety rules are not followed. Here are our tips on the ski safety rules you need to know to enjoy a peaceful and safe holiday on the slopes.
Know your limits
Ski slopes are, for the most part, clearly regulated and their difficulty level is clearly indicated. It is important not to ski above your level of ability, especially when you're getting back into skiing after a break.
Don't ski alone if possible
In particular if you are freeriding, ski touring or going off-piste, skiing alone can cause serious problems in the event of an incident. In any case, always carry a phone at the very least and try to go out with others. If you ski with a friend, you have someone to rely on if something goes wrong, and vice versa. When you witness an accident, you have a duty to assist the victim or victims. You must warn other skiers if the incident takes place on the slope. If the victim is bleeding, apply pressure to the wound to limit blood loss. While waiting for help to arrive, cover the victim to keep them warm and talk to them to encourage and reassure them.
Don't push your limits
A day on the slopes is exhausting. When you're tired, there's no point in pushing on. Take regular breaks and use them to refuel. You burn a great deal of calories in challenging weather conditions, so you need to pace yourself and conserve your energy. Watch out for lack of sleep and alcohol consumption — these are often factors that lead to a loss of alertness and reaction time on the slopes after a few days of festivities!
Pay close attention to the people around you
You won't be alone on the slopes, so it is fundamental to be mindful of others. Watch your movements to avoid putting other skiers or snowboarders at risk. Be especially attentive when you are stopped or taking a break on the slope. You are responsible for your own ski safety as well as that of those around you.
Control your speed
Every skier or snowboarder must learn to control their speed and remain in command of it at all times. It is essential to be aware of your speed and the risks it entails. To do this, you must take into account weather conditions, the density of traffic on the slope, the terrain (ice or snow) and remain absolutely focused in order to stay in control of your skis.
Choose the right clothing for skiing
You need the right equipment and appropriate clothing for skiing. Beyond the standard equipment (skis, boots and poles), wearing a helmet is absolutely essential, as are goggles to protect your eyes from the icy wind. As for clothing, you can wear thermal base layers for comfort and add a warm mid-layer before putting on your waterproof jacket and ski trousers or ski suit. Don't forget your socks and gloves!
Choosing technical, purpose-built clothing gives you greater comfort and freedom of movement. You see far too many people skiing in jeans with a tracksuit top. And don't forget that many ski garments are fitted with avalanche beacons that enable faster rescue in the event of an avalanche.
Know the rules of the slope
There are also rules of the road on the slopes to ensure ski safety. Skiers who are higher up the slope must look downhill before rejoining the piste, as they have a better vantage point and greater visibility than those below. They must give way to those who are lower down on the slope.
If you are skiing behind someone, take care not to obstruct them. Similarly, if you overtake them, you must maintain a safe distance and pass wide to avoid collisions.
Moreover, before entering or leaving the slope, you must look both up and down the hill and wait for the right moment to make your move. Finally, if you are climbing or descending the slope on foot, you must stay to the side of the piste so as not to get in the way.
Don't stop just anywhere
Skiers and snowboarders must of course never stop in the middle of a slope or in spots with reduced visibility, such as bends, narrow sections or just over the top of bumps. If you fall or suffer an injury, you must, where possible, move off the slope and position yourself to the side to avoid a secondary accident.
Identify yourself
If you witness an incident or accident on the slopes, you are required to identify yourself, whether as a person involved or simply as a witness. So if you find yourself in this type of situation, you are obliged to provide your personal details. Also, don't head out onto the slopes without slipping into the pocket of your ski jacket an identification document with your name, home address and the mobile number of the people to be contacted in an emergency.
Take lessons if necessary
Not everyone has the opportunity to ski regularly, and good technique can fade over time. Once you arrive at your ski resort, you'll have the chance to sign up for ski lessons. Especially if you're a beginner, we recommend attending a class to learn the basics, ski safety rules, the meaning of the different slope markings, and more. Even experienced skiers take lessons from time to time to fine-tune their skills.
Skiing is a sport that requires solid preparation, both in terms of equipment and skill. To build endurance and stability, you can also prepare physically. You'll be far safer on the slopes if you prepare in advance: exercise regularly throughout the year — it will also keep you in good shape all year round. Finally, in the mountains, be extra cautious: the scenery is stunning and skiing is great fun, but behind that very positive picture lie serious risks that must be managed, or at least anticipated.
