Ski and Snowboard Safety Tips
Skiing and snowboarding are two of the most exhilarating winter sports to experience. Like any other sport or activity, safety should always come first. Whether you are new to winter sports or have a lot of experience, it is always important to observe safety when participating in skiing and snowboarding.
- Obtain the right gear. Whether your renting your gear from a resort or bringing your own, make sure it is in good, working condition and fits you properly. Ill-fitting gear can cause accidents on the slopes, even to the best skier or snowboarder. Proper safety gear should include warm clothing, head protection like helmets and goggles, and ski or snowboard boots.
- Avoid alcohol use, as it inhibits cognitive function and can lead to injury if consumed while skiing or snowboarding. Alcohol or drug use of any kind is discouraged when participating in skiing or snowboarding, as they can hinder the safety of you or those around you.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye out for other people on the slopes, as well as any obstacles like trees or fallen branches or snowmaking equipment. Observe a map of the area you’ll be skiing or snowboarding in, and keep an eye out for obscure details on the terrain.
- Warm up before you begin. Before you jump onto a lift, do some light stretching to warm your body’s muscles up and prepare them for the work they will be doing.
- Wear skin protection. You will be bundled up for warmth, so a majority of your skin will be covered. It is still important to cover exposed parts of the body with sunscreen. Don’t forget to bring lip balm to protect your lips from the biting cold as well.
- Know your limits. Don’t push your body to extraneous levels, as this can lead to serious injury. Stay hydrated, and when you get tired, stop.
- Check weather conditions beforehand. Ask the staff or local ski patrol for daily weather conditions and updates . Bad weather conditions can lead to poor visibility and ultimately cause injury.
- Never ski or snowboard alone. Should an injury occur, you won’t want to be alone on the slopes. Always participate in winter sports with at least one other person.
- Follow the rules. Head all warning signs and posted rules, as they have been established to help keep you safe. Also avoid out-of-bound areas or areas of the slopes that have been closed off for safety reasons.
Keep these safety tips in mind any time you participate in skiing or snowboarding to keep yourself and those around you safe.