| In conjunction with January being National Safety Month, we’d like to remind you to be smart, be safe, and have fun! Whether you ski or ride, being educated in slope safety can help you enjoy your time on the mountain and reduce risk of accidents, injuries and loss of skiing/snowboarding privileges. Understand and follow the ten tips below to be safe on the slopes for the rest of the season.10 TIPS FOR STAYING SAFE ON THE HILL:1. Know the Code. Safety is everyone’s personal responsibility. Brush up on the Skier and Snowboard Responsibility Code this week. From looking uphill when merging to terrain park etiquette, these simple tips will help you stay safe and avoid serious injury whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned veteran.
2. Obey closures and ski area boundaries. “Closed means closed”, whether it’s a rope, a sign or a combination of the two; it is everyone’s responsibility to be aware of and stay out of closed terrain. Skiing out of ski area boundaries is not only dangerous, it is also against the law. Consequences for slope safety violations vary and may include suspension or revocation of pass privileges and involvement of law enforcement where applicable.
3. Wear a helmet. It’s not a fad – helmets are here to stay. Pick up or rent your very own protective helmet to stay safe and warm.
4. Ask a pro. Looking for the easiest way down or want to try out a new trail? Ask one of the many mountain hosts or patrollers cruising the mountain for tips on terrain and trail conditions. Their wealth of knowledge will make a great day even better.
5. Take a lesson: Bring your skills to the hill and take a lesson at a Ski and Ride School near you. Honing your technique will make you a safer, more confident skier.
6. Drink water: Dehydration can be a serious condition after a long day on the slopes. Drinking water will help rehydrate your body, as well as prevent altitude sickness at higher elevations.
7. Be prepared for the elements. Higher elevations mean that conditions will vary from top to bottom. It also makes sunscreen one of the most important things you put on in the morning. Protect your eyes with sunglasses or goggles and bring extra layers to stay warm as the weather changes throughout the day. Facemasks protect exposed skin from frostbite and windy ridgelines.
8. Be aware of your surroundings. Can uphill skiers and riders see you? Can you see them? Being aware of your surroundings will keep you and other skiers/riders safe especially over busy holiday weekends and during peak vacation times when trails are often more crowded.
9. Ski with a buddy. Skiing and riding with friends is not only more enjoyable, but also safer – especially when exploring new terrain and enjoying deep powder. It also makes EpicMix photos more fun, so round up your friends for a great day on the mountain.
10. Bring a map. Ski areas can be daunting to navigate. Pick up a map to make sure you don’t get stuck on expert terrain when your legs are spent or to avoid exposure in poor visibility. |
Recreation Law
Recreation Law 