Ski Safety Rules

Considering the safety aspects involved in both skiing and snowboarding is vital. Due to the nature of snow sports and the environment they take place in means that there will always be a certain amount of danger involved. There is a huge emphasis on all aspects of safety at the Ski Club we stress the importance of Avalanche Transceivers and the Skiers Code. 

The mountains should be treated with the highest respect at all times and the Ski Club always recommends that if you are skiing or thinking of skiing off-piste you should always do so with a qualified Rep or guide and carrying your avalanche transceiver, probe and shovel. For more comprehensive information and tips on all aspects of safety in snow sports check out of Freeride Safety Guide.

Remember that Avalanche Transceivers can be hired from the Ski Club through our Avalanche Transceiver Hire Scheme, with preferential rates for Ski Club members and as a Ski Club member you can also purchase transceivers at special rates through Lockwoods. 

As well as considering the dangers of skiing off piste, all skiers and boarders must also consider their own and other people’s safety all the time when on the mountain. The FIS (International Ski Federation) has established ten rules for the conduct of skiers and snowboarders which should be followed at all times.

These are the ten FIS Rules of Conduct:

1. Respect: Do not endanger others. 

2. Control: Adapt the manner and speed of your skiing to your ability and to the general conditions on the mountain. 

3. Choice of route: The skier/snowboarder in front has priority leave enough space. 

4. Overtaking: Leave plenty of space when overtaking a slower skier/snowboarder. 

5. Entering and starting: Look up and down the mountain each time before starting or entering a marked run. 

6. Stopping: Only stop at the edge of the piste or where you can easily be seen. 

7. Climbing: When climbing up or down, always keep to the side of the piste. 

8. Signs: Obey all signs and markings - they are there for your safety. 

9. Assistance: In case of accidents provide help and alert the rescue service.

10. All those involved in an accident, including witnesses, should exchange names and addresses. 

Guidelines for skiers and snowboarders

• You ski/board at your own risk.

• Pay attention to all signs and markers.

• Please ski/board on marked runs - these are protected from unexpected alpine dangers.

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

• Watch out for piste preparation machines.

• Respect nature - take care not to ski in areas where young trees or wildlife will be disturbed and don't drop litter.

• Consider taking lessons on a dry slope, and fitness sessions before going on holiday. 

• Signs around the ski area will warn you when avalanche danger is present (see Avalanches).

• Even when there is no warning of avalanches there could be local snow slides.

• Unless you know an area well, only ski/board off-piste with a guide (in the USA, skiing/boarding "out of bounds" without a guide can lead to confiscation of your lift pass).