Be aware - that way you'll be on the snow more and hurting less! Remember also that reading is informative, but it is no substitute for proper training and experience.

Basic Safety Information

Read the International FIS Code. More >

You ski or snowboard at your own risk.

Learn to sk or snowboard by getting proper, qualified instruction. Ask for ID too.

Consider wearing a helmet. It is mandatory in certain competition disciplines and for children at most resorts and UK centres.

Always check your equipment before you go out and make sure it's all in good order.

Check all available weather and avalanche reports in resort before going up the mountain.

Leashes are mandatory in some resorts for snowboarders - always make sure you have one available.

Pay attention to all signs and markers and obey all directives - they are for your safety.

Be careful on all the lift systems - many accidents happen here especially when getting off.

Watch out for piste machines - they hurt!

It is essential to look carefully to right and left when changing direction.

Inexperienced skiers or snowboarders should only ski/snowboard on marked runs. These are protected from alpine dangers (e.g. avalanches and unexpected precipices).

Areas outside the marked pistes and itineraries are not protected from alpine hazards.

The areas outside the marked runs are not normally patrolled or groomed.

If you are wishing to go off-piste you should get suitable training.

Hiring a trained professional guide is the safest way to ski/snowboard off-piste until you have gained the right level of experience.They'll save you time and take you to the best spots. Go as a group and you'll save money.

NEVER ski/snowboard off-piste alone.

Peer pressure can be dangerous - if your not sure, or uncomfortable, don't do it!

Make sure someone knows where you are going and when you're likely to be back.

Take a mobile phone with you and enter the local emergency numbers. It may just help you avert a disaster! Please note however that currently there are substantial concerns about electronic items interfering with avalanche tranceivers and therefore the ability to locate an avalanche victim quickly and successfully. It is currently recommended that mobile phones are switched off and only used when necessary when skiing/ snowboarding backcountry as recent research has shown them to interefere with both analogue and digital tranceivers.

Respect nature - take care not to ski or snowboard in areas where young trees will be damaged or wildlife disturbed.

Don't shout and holler at 3am down the middle of the street except under exceptional circumstances.

Don't drop litter and leave everything as found. The mountains are not a personal landfill site and should be treated with the care and respect they deserve.

Enjoy your trip.



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