The National Ski Patrol (NSP) has been dedicated to helping snow lovers enjoy the outdoors since 1938. While snow sports generally result in fewer injuries than bicycling, inline skating or jet skiing, they can still be very dangerous. To keep yourself and others on the mountains in Utah safe from skiing accidents this winter, it is important to follow some safety guidelines. As the NSP motto states, "Be snowsmart! Play it safe!"
Whether skiing or snowboarding, the following safety tips can help prevent injury and accident:
- Ski with a friend in case one of you gets hurt
- Wear a helmet and sunglasses or goggles
- Wear layers of clothing to adjust to weather changes
- Have the right equipment and get it tuned at least once a season
- Stay in good shape to reduce the chance of injury
- Stretch well to prevent muscle pulls or tears
- Do not take jumps blindly
Additionally, the National Ski Patrol has developed the following Responsibility Code to help skiers avoid injury to themselves and others:
- Always be able to stop or avoid other people or objects
- People ahead of you have the right of way
- Do not obstruct a trail or stop where you are not visible from above
- Look uphill and yield to others when starting downhill or merging into a trail
- Always use devices to help prevent runaway equipment
- Obey signs and warnings, like staying off closed trails and areas
- Do not ride a lift without the ability to load, ride and unload safely
Importance of Using Ski Equipment and Lifts Properly
Having the properly sized skis, boots, bindings and other accessories is crucial to avoiding serious accidents and injury. For example, bindings must be set specifically to a skier's height, weight and classification. They should be set by a certified technician to ensure they release at the appropriate time. Too soon or not at all could result in a severe injury.
While ski lift related deaths are very rare, serious injury is not uncommon. However, experts estimate that 90 percent of chairlift injuries occur while getting on or off the lift. This is because the chairs continue to move and the user must time boarding and leaving the lift just right - and do it with cumbersome equipment. If you are unsure of how to ride a specific lift, ask the attendant for help. Like NSP says, "Be snowsmart! Play it safe!"
Unfortunately though, no matter how safe you are, others on the slopes may not be so careful, so if you have involved in a skiing accident, contact an experienced attorney in your area today to be advised of your rights and options.
