Safety Tips: Skiing

Skiing is an exciting and fun winter activity. But it can also lead to injuries, some of them serious. To stay safe on the slopes, follow these safety tips.

What Safety Gear Do Skiers Need?

The right gear can help prevent injuries. Everyone who is skiing should have:

• Skis, boots, bindings, and poles fitted by a trained professional.
• A helmet made for skiing. Be sure it fits properly and keep the chin strap fastened.
• Goggles that are the right size and tinted for sun protection. Sunglasses can be worn instead, but goggles help you see better if it rains or snows, keep your face warmer, and are better at protecting your eyes from tree branches and other hazards.
• Warm clothing, including a hat, gloves or mittens, snow pants, and a winter jacket. A neck gaiter (which goes around your neck and can be pulled up over the face) can help keep your face warm. Dressing in layers can help you adjust if you get too warm. If you wear thermal underwear, get the kind made of wool or a material other than cotton. Cotton takes a long time to dry so it can make you cold.
• Sunscreen and lip balm with an SPF of 30 or higher for daytime skiing. Riders should wear it even when it’s cloudy because the sun’s rays will still reach them.

Should We Take Skiing Lessons?

New skiers, especially, should consider taking lessons before hitting the slopes, though they can be helpful for skiers of all levels. Sign up with a trained instructor certified by the Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA). Private lessons offer the most one-on-one time with an instructor, but less costly snowboard group lessons work well too.

How Can Skiers Stay Safe?

• Warm up and stretch before skiing.
• Don’t ski alone.
• Watch where you ride. Know which slopes are right for your skill level and ride only on those. If you find yourself on a slope that’s too tough, keep your skis on and sidestep down the hill. Stay on marked paths and never go past the ski area boundary or into a closed area. Also, pay attention to warning signs like, "Slow Skiing Area" and "Caution."
• Look out for other people. Before you start down a hill or merge onto a trail, look uphill to make sure no one is coming toward you.
• Know who has the right of way. Snowboarders and skiers in front of you have the right of way. Keep your distance and stay in control. Don’t stop in the middle of a trail or in any spot where you can't be seen from above, like below a drop-off.
• Know how to fall. Use the right safety gear and learn how to fall properly:
  • Practice falling on a soft surface or on grass.
  • Crouch down as you fall so you won't have as far to fall.
  • Land on the fleshy parts of your body and roll rather than breaking a fall with your arms and hands.
  • Relax while falling instead of going stiff.

What Else Should I Know?

• Stop skiing if you feel pain or get hurt. Before you go back on the hill, get checked by a doctor, nurse, athletic trainer, or coach.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of liquids before, during, and after skiing.
• Take breaks and don’t ski when you're very tired, which can lead to injury.
• Know what to do in case of an emergency or if you get separated from your group or partner. Carry a phone or whistle.