There’s no doubt about it; with the combination that it presents of rewarding physical challenges on frequently very beautiful mountainous backdrops, skiing can be an addictive activity. However, it is also precisely because of this that you should take particular care to pursue this fun and exciting sport in the most responsible and considered way.
Whether you’re a novice skier in the sense of having no experience at all, or you have perhaps taken a few lessons but aren’t yet turning confidently, it can be all too easy to overlook even the most seemingly “obvious” safety measures.
So, our experts at Ski Exchange in the UK are on hand to provide five critical safety tips that you will be glad you remembered once you are at the resort.
- Do extensive research into ski safety before you head off on your break
Of course, the fact that you’re reading this indicates you’re already off to a great start!
Nonetheless, it is worth emphasising that you can’t exactly be “too informed” on the various ways to stay safe on the slopes. So, we would urge you to keep on reading those authoritative online (and offline) sources on how to protect yourself as an inexperienced skier.
Certain common ski safety tips, such as the importance of following the on-piste rules, making sure one’s bindings are properly adjusted, and maintaining full awareness of one’s surroundings at all times, merit in-depth reading prior to your next ski holiday.
- Arrive early at the ski resort, if possible
This can be particularly good advice to follow if you’re planning to accompany friends and/or family who are more skilled and experienced skiers than you. After all, you won’t want to risk the potentially severe consequences of trying (and struggling) to keep up with your loved ones on especially challenging slopes.
By turning up early, you will have the opportunity to get comfortable, sort out your ski equipment, and – most crucially of all – undergo some ski lessons suited to your beginner level.
- Make sure you always wear a helmet
Even by the general standards of novice-oriented ski safety advice, this is a tip we can’t repeat enough times.
As has been cited by various bodies down the years such as the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS), skiing ranks highly among the recreational activities presenting a risk of head injuries that necessitate a visit to a hospital emergency department.
So, wearing a helmet while out on the slopes is not something that can be treated as an “optional extra”, regardless of your skill level or “preference”.
- Invest in sun protection
Packing some suncream for your ski break isn’t merely something you should do “in case it gets a bit sunny”. Wintry conditions don’t mean you won’t require sun protection. Remember, after all, that being up in the mountains, at a very high altitude, will put you much nearer to the sun.
Even the sky looking grey shouldn’t be treated as an indicator that you will avoid your skin being punished by high-intensity ultraviolet (UV) rays. So, you should try to ensure you wear Factor 50+ on any exposed skin – and a lip balm with an SPF is likely to be a sensible purchase, too.
- Dress with the volatile conditions of the mountains in mind
There is a simple formula to follow here: always bring more layers than you expect to require. Temperatures at your chosen ski resort could drop from “sunny beach holiday” to “below freezing” even faster than you anticipate, which could profoundly affect your core temperature.
So, don’t worry that you might not end up using those extra layers. It’s much better to be prepared, with the option to put on that additional layer if needed.
The broad range of highly rated ski essentials in stock here at Ski Exchange in the UK – including base layers, thermals, mid layers, and more – will help ensure you are thoroughly prepared. This will enable you to begin putting your skills to the test on the slopes, in the knowledge of being as well-protected as you possibly can be.