Going Skiing : Safety Considerations

In this part of our learn to ski guide we look at what to be aware of whilst skiing.

Though skiing has a relatively low injury rate when compared to other recreational activities, thousands of skiers are still hurt every year. The nature of it means that you’ll always be at a degree of risk, but there are things that you can do to minimize the risk of sustaining an injury.

First, make sure that you have all the equipment you need, that it’s in good working order, and that you are appropriately outfitted to ski.  Your boots, bindings and skis should all be tailored to your weight, height, and level of expertise and should be checked over by a certified ski shop after every prolonged absence of use.  Keeping yourself warm, particularly your hands and feet, and making sure that your clothing is resistant to both wind and water is of particular importance.

If  you don’t know how to ski and don’t have confidence in your ability, then just don’t.  While family and friends may know what they’re talking about, it’s a better idea to learn from a certified ski instructor.  The better your skiing knowledge and technique, the less mistakes you’ll make, and the less mistakes you make, the less you’ll be putting yourself in harm’s way.  Research has proved that those who take more ski lessons are less at risk of injury than those who have taken fewer lessons.

Ski only at a speed which is safe (in relation to your ability and experience, the number of skiers around you, the condition of the slope and the weather conditions), don’t make any rash or unpredictable maneuvers, and never stop unnecessarily.  Just as with traffic, you must obey all the posted signs on the slopes, especially those posted at the top and bottom and where slopes merge, and if you end up on a slope that makes you question your safety, don’t attempt to ski it, rather side-step down it with your skis on.

Don’t try to ski yourself into shape, rather, prepare months before your planned ski trip with a good strengthening and conditioning program.  Focus on aerobic training but complement it with some weight training also.  Being conditioned and fit is a good way to avoid fatigue and allow you to ski for longer periods.  Skiing whilst tired is dangerous so know your own physical limits and take rest breaks at regular intervals. 

Re-apply your sunscreen during your rest breaks, and make sure you rehydrate as well.  Regularly drinking water is important as failure to do so can result in nausea, fainting or altitude sickness, and sunscreen (factor 30+) is essential, even on cloudy days, because the sun’s rays are stronger at high altitudes and the snow reflects its rays.