Skiing & Snowboarding Safety

Skiing and snowboarding are great ways to spend time outdoors during the winter months. There is a risk of injury, but being aware of the risks can help reduce your chance of injury. The most common factors associated with skiing or snowboarding injuries are falls, jumps, excess speed, loss of control, and collisions with stationary objects like a tree.

Tips to help you stay safe on the slopes:

• Wear a properly fitted helmet. Look for an ASTM F2040 certified helmet made for skiing and snowboarding.
• The right gear can help prevent injuries. Rental or sales professional can help you choose equipment that is the right size and right fit: skiis, helmet, boots, bindings, poles, goggles, etc.
• Check your equipment each time you hit the slopes. A bindings check is always a smart move. 
• Learn and follow the "Your Responsibility Code," the seven safety rules of the slope.
• Ski or snowboard at your appropriate level. Beginners should avoid advanced runs and invest in proper instruction, including learning how to fall and get back up.
• Never ski on closed runs or out of boundaries. These areas are not monitored and there is no way to know what the snow conditions are.
• Never ski or snowboard alone. In many cases a severely injured skier or snowboarder can be saved if someone is there to get help.
• Before using a ski lift, tow rope or carpet, make sure you know how to get on, ride and get off safely. Ask an attendant if you need help.
• Stay warm and dry by wearing several thin layers: moisture-wicking inner layers for keeping moisture away from the skin, insulating middle layers, and a waterproof/windproof outer layer. Being able to add or remove layers with changing weather conditions helps avoid overheating or hypothermia.
• Get in shape. Follow a regular fitness program before heading to the mountains. A basic layer of conditioning will strengthen muscles and build endurance that will help prevent injuries.
• Warm up. Before you hop from the car to the chairlift, don’t forget to do a little stretching to loosen and warm up your cold muscles. Focus on calves, hamstrings, quadriceps and your shoulders.
• Hydrate. Don’t forget to drink plenty of fluids as the day goes along. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, and fatigue can lead to improper form and cause injury.

Know the Code 

Helmets Save Lives