Tips for enjoying the slopes with fewer injuries
The National Ski Areas Association dedicates each January to promoting safety and common sense for skiers and snowboarders when they hit the slopes. According to the nonprofit National Safety Council, more than 57,000 injuries were attributed to skiing and snowboarding in 2021, and most fatalities were associated with excess speed, loss of control, and collisions with stationary objects like trees or lift towers.
The NSC recommends that all skiers and snowboarders review proper skills and safety procedures regularly, and offers a few general tips:
* Get in shape before you ski. Regular exercise during the off-season can help reduce fatigue and injury on the slopes.
* Take classes from qualified instructors. Beginners should rely on experts to help them develop basic skills, and experienced skiers can always benefit from a refresher.
* Check the weather before you go out. Low visibility can conceal dangerous obstacles.
* Pay attention to other skiers. Give skiers in front of you the right of way and watch for others before you cross a trail, merge, or start down a hill.
* Stay within ski area boundaries. You may be cut off from emergency assistance in unmonitored areas, and a single skiier on unstable snowpack can trigger an avalanche.
* Always wear a properly fitted helmet, boots, bindings and skis. Clothing should be easily visible, slide-resistant, and water repellent.
