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Is skiing your favourite winter sport? Make sure to put your safety first by keeping these 5 tips in mind

 Many people wait enthusiastically for winter only because they can go skiing – and for good reason, as few sports in the world can truly match the agility, speed, and adventure of skiing, combining breathtaking scenery with the opportunity to rocket down a mountain’s side at over 40 mph. However, as with all sports out there, skiing can be dangerous, especially if you don’t take the right precautions. 

Due to the speed it involves and the mountainous terrain, skiing can lead to serious accidents. Thankfully, you can avoid any distressing incidents if you take skiing seriously and stay safe while on the slopes. Below, you can find our top 5 tips on ski safety, so read on! 

Don’t disregard skiing rules
There is a code for drivers that tells them how they should behave on the road, and if they don’t follow the rules,  they could get sued in case another driver gets involved in a traffic collision due to their negligence. Similarly, the FIS (International Ski Federation) also has conduct rules for skiers, which are legally binding and cover different scenarios, among which the most important rule is to give priority to the person in front of you. 

Others rules that are worth mentioning here include overtaking ( which is allowed, but only if you leave enough space for movements that the skier in front may do), descending or climbing on foot ( which you can only do if you stay to the side of the piste), as well as stopping on piste, which is prohibited unless there’s no other option ( for instance, when there are low-visibility or narrow areas on the slope). These are just a few rules that the FIS has laid down, but it’s essential to check them all to stay safe on piste. 

Always wear a helmet 
This is a tip that you shouldn’t overlook, because it will make a ton of difference when it comes to your safety on piste. In fact, it’s just as essential as wearing a helmet while on the motorcycle because many skiers exceed 30mph (surprising, but true), and ice on the slope can be really hard. Skiing is among the top 20 recreational activities leading to head injuries, while severe head trauma accounts for about 20% of all ski-related injuries. 

In fact, head injuries are a frequent cause of death for skiers, and if they aren’t fatal, they can cause severe disability. This is why many insurance companies make it a condition to wear a helmet when skiing, and it’s recommended to check it when buying a policy. 

Make sure your boots fit properly 
Your boots should be a good fit because they will ensure you have the necessary support and control when skiing. If they are too loose or too tight, you will likely feel uncomfortable on the slopes and want to stop skiing sooner than expected. 

So, in order to get your money’s worth out of the ski pass, it’s imperative to take additional measures to ensure that your gear fits perfectly and makes you feel comfortable when enjoying your time on the slopes. 

Know your limits
Here’s the thing: you should never ski on a trail that exceeds your skill level because this could be incredibly risky for you and other individuals on the piste. It’s best to err on the side of the caution and opt for a trail that fits your ability level. If you aren’t sure which path you should take, it’s best to start with the easier trail, and work your way up more challenging terrain as soon as you become more experienced. 

Our recommendation is to watch other skiers on the slope, as this will help you get a sense of how difficult the trail is – for instance, if other skiers fall frequently or struggle on the piste, this indicates that the piste isn’t suitable for you, as it is too hard -and that’s alright! After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry, right? So, be cautious and look for any moguls, drop-offs, or other features that can only be navigated safely by skiers with advanced skills. 

Stay alert in hazardous weather conditions
High winds or heavy snowfall can be a recipe for disaster when it comes to skiing, as these extreme weather conditions can increase the risk of falling and experiencing severe injuries. If the weather makes you feel uncomfortable and unsafe, it’s definitely wise to wait out in a designated ski lodge, warming hut, or any other protected area. If you cannot find shelter, staying with your group is recommended to ensure that no one is left behind. 

When planning your time on the slopes, it’s a good idea to check the weather announcements beforehand or check if the resort staff is giving any warnings. If they do, you should consider their recommendations, such as staying off the mountain or avoiding certain areas, because they are meant to keep you safe. Besides inclement weather, also be aware of tree wells. If you’re generally on the lookout for fresh snow, you probably enjoy skiing in the trees; however, as the snow falls, it can form a tree well which can be very risky if you aren’t careful and take the necessary precautions. Falling into a tree well could lead to you being buried because of how soft the snow is. So, be mindful of the terrain and choose to ski in big open spaces between the trees. 

The bottom lin
It’s very important to follow the advice in this blog when on the slopes because this will help you avoid an injury that, at worst, could threaten your life. As enjoyable as skiing is, it also poses risks, and it’s always better to take preventive measures to avoid any potential disaster from happening and turning your life upside down.  Stay safe out there and enjoy your skiing adventure! 

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