The International Ski Federation’s Rules of Conduct:

1.  Respect

Do not endanger others.

2. Control

Adapt the speed and technique of your skiing to your ability, and to the terrain,       weather, snow conditions, and traffic density.

3. Choice of route

The skiers in front of you take priority.  Choose a route that leaves space for them.

4. Passing

When passing a slower skier, leave them room enough to make any move.

5. Entering and starting

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

6. Stopping

Only stop where you can easily be seen.  If you fall where the trail is narrow or  where you are out of view, move clear of it as quickly as possible.

7. Climbing or descending on foot

When climbing up or down, always keep to the edge of the slope.

8. Signs

Obey all signs and posted markings.  They are there for your safety.

9. Assistance

In case of accidents, provide help and alert the rescue service.

10. Identification

All those present at an accident must offer personal identification and contact information. 

Further Safety Reminders:

Skiing off marked trails:

Areas outside of marked trails are not patrolled or groomed.  Do not enter them alone or without a guide who knows the terrain.

Avalanches:

Obey all avalanche warnings.  Avalanches can be deadly.  Most avalanche accidents are started by a person entering an unstable snow field.  Do not go near such fields without at least carrying a rescue beacon, and if you have to cross suspect slopes, do so one person at a time.

Snow grooming machines:

Steer clear of all snow grooming machines.  They can’t move out of your way.

Safety on lifts:

Learn how to use ski lifts safely, and practice your safety skills whenever using them.

Preventing runaway equipment:

Make sure your skis have working ski brakes to prevent them from sliding away out of control by themselves.  A loose ski can be very dangerous.

Litter:

Dispose of all trash properly.

Respecting nature:

Do not ski where you will disturb young trees or wildlife.

Alcohol and drugs:

Do not ski while intoxicated.

What to do at an accident site:

1.     Protect the accident site with crossed skis (or a snowboard) planted in the snow far enough above the injured person for oncoming skiers to see in time.

2.     Tend to the injured person:

a.      Check the injured person’s breathing and pulse.

b.     Cover any wound and apply pressure to slow bleeding.

c.      Provide warmth.

d.     Do not give food or drink.

3.     Alert the rescue service.

4.     Establish the facts of the accident.  Gather names and contact information

from witnesses and those involved.  Report to police.