Skiing Safety Rules

Before Skiing

• One of the most important tips for any skier is to make sure you are in good physical condition before you take to the slopes, as this will reduce the chance of injury. A skier in good physical condition is also less likely to become fatigued, and a tired skier is more likely to be involved in an accident than a fit, alert skier. Don't rush things, either; take the time learn basic techniques--including how to fall correctly--from a ski instructor.

Equipment

• A simple way of staying safe on the slopes is to ensure your equipment is in good condition and fits properly. Ski bindings should be checked regularly; any ski rental store will check to make sure they are a good fit. Ski pole straps can be dangerous and should not be used. They put the wearer at risk for thumb and upper arm injuries by locking the wrist and hands to the pole, disabling the lower arms during an accident or fall. You shouldn't wear loose clothing while skiing because it can become tangled in ski poles and ski lifts. On the other hand, you should always wear a helmet to reduce the risk of head injuries. And the sun can also cause problems, so you should wear goggles or sunglasses to reduce glare and help block the sun's rays.

Falls and Crashes

• Skiing is at its most dangerous when a skier falls or crashes. Many accidents occur on or near the chairlift, because skiiers often do not concentrate as they should there. For example, a knee injury can easily be sustained when the back of a ski is stepped on on the chairlift. Of course, there are many ways to injure yourself when you fall on the slopes. Chief among them: attempting to recover from a fall before you've stopped moving; attempting to recover from an off-balanced position before falling; and attempting to sit down to avoid falling after losing your balance. It is important to seek the advice of an instructor to learn the proper technique for falling.