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How to Have a Safe Day on the Slopes
You got your brand new waterproof ski jacket, cool goggles, and the
adrenaline's flowing. Think you're ready to hit the slopes? Hold on a
second, and read a few pieces of advice that will keep your time on the
hill safe and fun for you and all those around.
- If you are a
beginner--or even if it's just your first time skiing or snowboarding in a while-- it's a
good idea to take a lesson. You will have much more fun on the mountain if
you already have some of the basics down. You might be tempted to have a
friend teach you but professional instruction is the way to go. Your friend
might mean well but someone who is not trained to teach might forget to
mention important details that you need to ski or board safely.
- Always stay
in control so you can avoid objects, whether they are trees, rocks, or
people. This means never ski or board beyond your ability to stop. Use common sense,
keep your eyes open, and show courtesy to others.
- People ahead of
you have the right of way. It is your responsibility to avoid them. Be
polite when you want to pass, telling the person whether you are "on the
right" or "on the left." When starting downhill or merging onto a trail,
look up the mountain and yield to others.
- Drink plenty of water.
The combination of exertion and high altitude causes your body to lose
water very quickly.
- Do not stop on blind curves or under ledges and rises, places other skiers and snowboarders can't see you.
Every year, a countless number of people have their vacation cut short by
injury because they didn't follow this simple rule.
- Keep off all
closed trails and out of closed areas. The unmarked powder off the groomed
trails tempts everyone. If you ski or board out of bounds, you might lose your pass,
or even spend the night in jail. Or worse...
- Use devices to help
prevent runaway equipment. Also, be sure that your bindings and other
equipment are functioning properly.
- Stop when tired. Trying to cram in
one last run when your legs are getting rubbery and the light is getting
flat is probably the leading cause of ski and snowboard injuries. When your body begins
to tell you it's done, take heed.
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