With half term being in full swing and the Portes du Soleil seeing lots of holiday makers on the pistes we thought it was a good time to remind everyone about mountain safety!
You may have seen this before but it’s always good to have a refresh!
The skiers and snowboarders responsibility code:
- Always stay in control.
- People ahead of you have the right of way.
- Stop in a safe place for you and others.
- Whenever starting downhill or merging, look uphill and yield.
- Use devices to help prevent runaway equipment.
- Observe signs and warnings, and keep off closed pistes.
- Know how to use the lifts safely
That’s all well and good for the pistes but what if you are feeling adventurous and feel like entering some of the freestyle terrain such as the park, pipe or stash. These places can be dangerous with people riding at high speed when dropping in to or landing from a kicker or rail or riding the pipe so it’s important to not only look out for your own safety but also that of others!
The Stash – Avoriaz
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BEFORE LEAPING
Always do a ride through first to take a look at the features. The size and appearance of modules in the park vary depending on snow conditions and of the time of day.
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RESPECT YOUR LEVEL
Do not go to the park without having the experience and skills necessary to practice safely. Check the degree of difficulty you will encounter in the snowpark. Seek the help of someone with experience if necessary.
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IF YOU WANT TO BE RESPECTED, RESPECT OTHERS
Only one person at a time per module. Wait your turn and let people know you are dropping in. Do not stop on the landings. Respect the signs and do not go in the park when closed.
The Superpipe – Avoriaz
In addition to this helpful information above, it’s always best to add in a healthy helping of common sense for example:
- Don’t stand in the landing of the jumps or features in the parks or stash. It’s not always possible to see someone in the landing and therefore you may end up with someone landing on your head! If you had a go yourself and fell, get out of the landing asap.
- Make sure you are always aware of what is going on around you.
- Do not just drop half way into the pipe without looking whats happening first, it’s likely you could meet someone at very high speed in there! The pipe etiquette is to stand at the top of your chosen drop in and hold your hand up when it is your turn to go (normally alternate sides). Always wear a helmet!
- Finally, the wooden features of the stash might look like a great place to have your picnic but they are all freestyle features and so it’s best not to stop there!
Stay safe on the mountain and enjoy yourselves!