Safety Tips For A Better Ski Holiday

My number one tip is to wear a helmet. Many people would not dream of riding a bike through a park without a helmet but would ski down an icy black run wearing only a woolly hat on their heads. As more and more skiers start to wear helmets it is even more urgent for you to do so. If you ever witness a collision between two skiers, one wearing a helmet and one not, (I have and it was not nice) no bets on which one skis away!
In America ski safety is taken very seriously. The National Ski Areas Association, the National Ski Patrol, and the Professional Ski Instructors Association officially endorse the following Alpine Responsibility Code, and remind you that the code is a condition of skiing:
1. Know your ability and always stay in control and be able to stop and avoid other people or objects. It is your responsibility to stay in control on the ground and in the air.
2. Take lessons from qualified professional instructors, to learn and progress.
3. As you proceed downhill or overtake another person, you must avoid the people below and beside you.
4. Do not stop where you obstruct a trail or run, or are not visible from above.
5. When entering a trail or run or starting downhill, look uphill and give way to others.
6. When riding chairlifts always use the restraining devices. Always use suitable restraints to avoid runaway skiing/boarding equipment. Ensure your equipment is in good condition.
7. Observe and obey all signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails or runs and out of closed areas.
8. Before using any lift you must have the knowledge and ability to load, ride and unload safety.
9. Do not ski, board, ride a lift or undertake any other alpine activity if your ability is impaired by drugs or alcohol.
10. If you are involved in, or witness an accident or collision, alert Ski Patrol, remain at the scene and identify yourself to the Ski Patrol.

In addition to these rules I would add.

1. Be aware of the standard of the piste and the other skiers you are skiing near. Don't zoom down green runs full of beginners who may be unnerved by your quick turns. Also don't go on slopes above your ability. If however you do find you are on a piste that is too difficult for your abilities, keep your skis and side step down the run.
2. Exercise and get into shape before the holiday, stretch and warm up each morning before skiing and make sure your first run is a gentle wake up run.
3. If you're tired, have a rest. Skiing burns a lot of energy so make sure you have some energy snacks with you. When it's the end of the day, and conditions may be deteriating there's no need to try and get that last run in. It's better to quit while you're ahead and save your energy for next time.
4. Remember that a skier in front of you has the right of way. Whether you're crossing a piste, making a turn, or stopping, remember that it is your responsibility to avoid the skier in front of you. Always stop on the side of the piste and never in the middle.
5. Always wear the correct clothes, boots and ski goggles. It is advisable to have two sets of eye wear, one for low light and another for bright sunshine. The sun can be very intense in the mountains and a high factor sun cream is an essential part of your equipment.
6. Finally if skiing off piste take expert advice, don't follow somebody else line and always carry an avalanche transceivers (beacons).
Have an exciting but safe ski holiday.