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Skiing Safety Tips

Skiing is undoubtedly one of the most popular activities during the winter, and for good reason. It's fun, exciting, and can be enjoyed by kids and adults alike. Skiing is also a thrilling and fast-paced activity and can definitely get adrenaline pumping.

Of course, as exhilarating as the sport is, it's always best to put safety first at all times. If you're planning to go skiing sometime this season, be sure to take the necessary precautions to ensure that you and those around you stay safe and sound.

Read on below for some skier safety tips and resources:

Get into proper gear

Always dress in layers when going skiing. Wear thermal underwear to keep yourself from shivering. Be sure to pick something that quick to dry, breathable, and more importantly, comfortable. For your mid-layer, opt for fleece fabric to warm you up and keep you safe from the winds. Top that off with a water proof jacket and a pair of water-proof pants.

Be sure to get yourself some ski gloves to help keep your hands warm. It's also advisable that you wear a ski helmet to protect yourself from injuries. Ski goggles are also highly recommended, because they can help shield your eyes from the sun and help increase your visibility at the same time.

When choosing the right ski equipment, ask the store or rental staff for advice on the best ones for you. The equipment that you need will depend on your size, body type so it's best to consult with people in charge to know the right ones to choose. Just be sure to fit everything properly before hitting the slopes. Get a feel of the boots and bindings and adjust them accordingly before joining in on the action.

Know your limits

Only opt for ski trails that are appropriate for your level. If you're a beginner be sure to start at the bunny slopes before moving on to the more difficult trails. If you're uncomfortable, you may want to take lessons first and get instructions from professionals.

Knowing your limits applies to everyone, not just to beginners. If you have experience skiing and are already hanging out in the intermediate or advanced trails, be sure to master those slopes first and get the hang of skiing in those areas, before advancing to higher levels.

Also be sure to pay attention to any signs that you see in the skiing areas. Respect the rules that you see and never go off-trail.

Always have somebody with you

The buddy system should come into play whenever you're out skiing. Ski resorts are full of people going in different directions so it could get pretty easy be separated from each other. To avoid losing touch with your companions, always ski and travel around with a buddy. This person should serve as your partner and be ready to assist or help you (and vice versa.)

Resources

For more information about skier safety, be sure to check out these helpful websites:

National Park Service - Winter Recreation - The NPS page dedicated to winter actvitites.

TeensHealth - Safety Tips Skiing - A page offering safety advice for teen skiers

Recreation.gov - A page by Recreation.gov dedicated to Winter Sports.

National Ski Patrol - Safety page by the NPS.

ColoradoSki.com - Safety Tips from Coloroado Ski Resorts.

Ski & Board Minnesota - Skiing and snowboarding safety advice from Ski & Board MN.

Ski & Ride Smart - Advice from Mountain Creek resort to help you stay safe and secure while skiing and riding.

Washington Trails Association - Skiing and Snowshoeing Information from the WTA.

National Safety Council - Ski and Snowboard Safety - An NSC document detailing safety precautions for skiers and snowboarders.

Safety Tips - Children's Hospital Colorado - Skiing advice by the Children's Hospital in Colorado to help kids be safe at the slopes.

California Ski & Snowboard Safety Organization - CalSkiSafet.org promotes and supports safety improvement in California snow sports.

Image credit: Skistar Trysil on Flickr