Vail Colorado: Staying Safe On Your Vacation

Vail Colorado mountain is known to be one the premier skiing destinations in the country. The vast expanse of snow which makes for some breathtaking scenery, the wonderful amenities in first-class hotels, the fabulous shops and the hottest bars ideal for taking a break from the slopes - all these make for a truly fantastic skiing holiday without going overseas.

Hailed as the leader in the snow sport industry, the Vail resort also takes seriously its responsibility of promoting safety on the slopes. After all, accidents can easily happen even to the most professional of all skiers. With this in mind, the resort has come up with an exceptionally effective program that is geared towards the skiing public's mountain safety education and its successful implementation. Proof of Vail's dedication is the fact that it has won the National Ski Areas Association Safety Award for the past nine years.

Skier's Responsibility Code

The code is the most basic set of guidelines that anyone who goes out into the slopes should be aware of as part of the mountain safety education. The very first tenet of the Skier's Responsibility Code that has been emphasized time again in the campaign program is that one should always stay in control and be able to stop and avoid other people. Together with the first guideline, skiers should always also remember that objects are closer than they appear to be.

Other important points incorporated into the code are the skiers' duty to: avoid bumping into people ahead of them as they have the right of way, refrain from obstructing a trail, prevent run away equipment, observe all signs and warnings, and use a ski lift only with adequate knowledge in the loading and unloading process.

Other tips for a safe, stress-free day

Aside from the basic rules that are incorporated into the responsibility code, there are also other ways to avoid running into unwanted mishaps while exploring the wonders of Vail Mountain.

Always set a specific time and place to meet up with family and friends at the end of the day. The sheer vastness of the area can easily make you lose track of the company that you came with. By making the meeting time and place clear to everyone, you would also know if a member of your party may have perhaps been held up by unfortunate circumstances if he doesn't show up later.

Dress appropriately for the activity. As weather conditions are known to change abruptly without warning, it is best to clothe yourself in layers. Snug hats, gloves, and neck gators are a must. Do not forget to apply sunscreen too. Situated in such an elevated location as Vail Mountain, the sun's effects are stronger and could be more damaging.

While helmets are not required and the use of one is a personal choice, it is highly advised that skiers consider the advantages of using one, keeping in mind as well the disadvantages it could bring.

Start your ski day with a good meal then keep your energy going with quick snacks and a continuous supply of fluids. Energy bars are easy to stuff into the pockets and can give you the energy fix when and where needed.

Ski and ride at your appropriate level of expertise. By being aware of your surroundings at all times, you also prevent yourself from wandering into areas which are already beyond your abilities.

Bear in mind that you are sharing the slope with others and so exercise caution always. This is also the reason why some areas noted on the trail map of Vail with a yellow grid, are specifically designated as slow skiing zone areas.