Winter Sport Safety & Security
To safely enjoy such popular and fun winter sports as skiing and
snowboarding, it is essential to be responsible and to know your
abilities. Reckless skiing can be extremely dangerous.
BEFORE GETTING ON THE SLOPES
Maintain your equipment:
- Make sure your equipment is adjusted for your size, weight and
ability.
- If your equipment is more than a year old, get it serviced in
a local ski shop.
- Label your equipment because skis and snowboards often look
alike and can be mistaken for those that belong to other people.
Dress appropriately:
- Always use sunscreen and protect your eyes with goggles or sun
glasses. The sun reflecting off the snow is stronger than might
be expected in the winter.
- Consider purchasing or renting a helmet -- it may provide protection
from serious head injuries.
- Rent or purchase ski clothing that will keep you warm and dry.
Make sure you can bend and move comfortably.
Train for your sport:
- Take lessons from qualified instructors. Lessons will help you
to become a better skier or snowboarder. Also, before going on
a chair lift, learn how to get on and off safely.
- Learn the types of exercises you can do before hitting the slopes
to get your body in shape. And remember to stretch before and
after skiing or snowboarding.
WHEN SKIING OR SNOWBOARDING
Don't overestimate your ability:
- Pay close attention to weather forecasts and warnings. Icy trails
can be dangerous.
- Start on an easy slope and work your way up if you are skiing
for the first time this season or if you are skiing on a new mountain,
no matter how skilled you might be.
- Stop skiing if you feel fatigued, overly cold or hungry.
- Hypothermia is dangerous and can even be fatal. Drink plenty
of fluids so that you don't become dehydrated.
- Observe signs and warnings and keep away from closed trails
or from trails that might be beyond your skill or ability.
- Avoid skiing in remote places, especially by yourself.
Know the rules:
- Whenever starting downhill or merging, look uphill. Always yield
to those coming down. It may be hard for them to stop quickly.
- Remember, skiing and snowboarding do not mix with drinking alcohol!
- Stay in control and be alert. Don't rely on other skiers to
be responsible.
Once off the slopes, make sure your equipment is stored away safely
and securely. Lock your skis and snowboards even if you only leave
them for a few minutes. Also make sure to lock your car and/or ski
house.
Skiing and snowboarding equipment can be very expensive, so it's a
good idea to have insurance. If you have homeowners or renters insurance,
you will usually be covered for theft and other perils listed in your
policy, minus the deductible. For broader coverage, you might consider
purchasing a floater. Keep your receipts to know how much your equipment
is worth. For specific questions regarding insurance, talk to your
agent, broker or company representative. With Permission © Insurance
Information Institute, Inc. - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED -
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