Staying Safe This Winter! Handy Tips From A Ski Patroller

Where do most accidents occur?

Most accidents occur on blue runs. Despite this, most incidents that ski patrol is called out to are minor! Significant accidents often result from collisions.

This is your sign to read the signs!

Ski patrollers are responsible for opening and securing the slopes each morning by doing controlled safety scans, putting up safety signs, and protecting obstacles. During the day, ski patrol cannot enforce that people always read the signs. If you go down a slope that is closed, you are putting yourself and others at risk. Ski patrol only shut slopes because we consider them to be too dangerous for the public due to lack of snow, rocks, ice, extremely hard snow or avalanche danger.

Here are some great ways to keep yourself safe this winter… 

• Be physically prepared for your trip! Do some core strength, cardio and flexibility training to prevent injury and protect against any old injuries.
• Whilst on the hill, stay hydrated and keep refuelling regularly with appropriate snacks to keep your energy up.

Preparation and prevention is key! Know the safety code and share it with others… 

• 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.
• If you wish to take lessons, do so only from our trained staff, who are qualified to do so.
• Use appropriate protective equipment to minimise the risk of injury.
• Before using any lift you must have the knowledge and ability to load, ride and unload safely and always use the restraining devices.
• Observe and obey all signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails or runs.
• Give way to people below and beside you on the hill. It is your responsibility to avoid them.
• Do not stop where you are not clearly visible from above. Look uphill and give way to others when entering/exiting a trail or starting downhill.
• Do not ski, board, ride a lift or undertake any other alpine activity if your ability is impaired by drugs or alcohol.
• 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.

Gear Up With Flip Insurance

For just $7 a day or $25 a week, Flip protects you and your kids on and off-piste, backcountry and heli-skiing. You can sign up on your phone in the time it takes you to ride the lift. Use the code THREDBO23 for 20% off your first purchase*.

Learn more here.

Fjord’s Mountain Mission: Mountain Safety For Kids

Ski Patroller Caroline Elliott is the author of the unique international children’s snow safety book, ‘Fjord’s Mountain Mission’. The book was born during lockdown following the death of her avi dog Fjord as a result of her desire to help children and parents learn mountain safety basics.

www.fjordSAR.com