Ski Safe

Ski insurance

We cannot overstate the importance of having adequate medical insurance for a winter sports holiday.
It is essential that before you participate in any activity on holiday, you ensure that the terms of your insurance policy cover you for each activity.
If you are injured whilst on a snow-sports holiday and are not adequately insured, the costs can run into thousands of pounds.  An injured skier may need to be air-lifted off the mountain. That in itself will cost many times more than the cost of your holiday, before you consider the cost of medical treatment or repatriation.  
You should be aware that many insurance policies do not cover for off-piste skiing. If you wish to ski off-piste you may be able to obtain extra cover but it is important that you check exactly what you are and are not covered for.

Skiing whilst under the influence of alcohol.

You should be aware that the effects of alcohol on your judgement of danger, on your reactions and on your body’s ability to deal with the cold can be greater at high altitude.  Moreover, if you are involved in a skiing or snowboarding accident whilst under the influence of alcohol, your insurance may well be invalid.  This means that if you cause injury to yourself or another person, you could be liable for thousands of pounds of costs.
Such is the importance of these issues, the FCO have launched a campaign to raise awareness of ski safety and the importance of appropriate winter sports insurance.  For further details follow the link below:
http://www.fco.gov.uk/resources/en/pdf/travel-living-abroad/your-trip/winter-sports-checklist.pdf

Other General safety hints

Check the weather forecast and snow conditions at the lift company or tourist office before setting out.
Familiarise yourself with the area piste map and always carry a copy with you.
Make sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration.
Never ski on roads.
Do not ski alone.
Do not ski when tired – a high proportion of accidents happen at the end of the day.

Rules for the conduct of skiers and snowboarders – FIS (International Ski Federation)

1. Respect: Do not endanger others.
2. Control: Adapt the manner and speed of your skiing to your ability and to the general conditions on the mountain.
3. Choice of route: The skier/snowboarder in front has priority – leave enough space.
4. Overtaking: Leave plenty of space when overtaking a slower skier/snowboarder.
5. Entering and starting: Look up and down the mountain each time before starting or entering a marked run.
6. Stopping: Only stop at the edge of the piste or where you can easily be seen.
7. Climbing: When climbing up or down, always keep to the side of the piste.
8. Signs: Obey all signs and markings – they are there for your safety.
9. Assistance: In case of accidents provide help and alert the rescue service.
10. Identification: All those involved in an accident, including witnesses, should exchange names and addresses.

Care in the sun

The sun is extremely strong and bright at altitude, especially reflecting off snow.
Wear sun block or high factor sunscreen at all times and re-apply frequently.
Take extra care with children in the sun.
Always protect your lips using lip balm or sun block for lips.
Always wear sunglasses or goggles to protect your eyes from snow blindness.