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How to ski safely is the focus of this installment of our learn to ski guide.

Statistics indicate that the injury rate for skiers is lower than that of many other recreational activities, however, there are still thousands skiing injuries sustained every year. It’s not possible to avoid the dangers involved altogether, but there are things you can do to minimize the risk you put yourself at.

Check that you have all the necessary equipment, and that it’s in good, working condition, and that you’re wearing the appropriate attire. Make sure that your skis, boots, and bindings are suited to your height, weight, and level of proficiency, and if they have sat idle for any prolonged time period, take them to a certified ski shop and have them inspected by a professional before skiing in them again. Your clothing must be wind and water resistant and should keep you adequately warm (your head, hands and feet being particularly susceptible to the cold).

Ensure that you know how to ski and feel confident doing so. Don’t rely on friends or family members to teach you, use a certified ski instructor. The better your skiing knowledge and technique, the less mistakes you’ll make, and the less mistakes you make, the less you’ll be putting yourself in harm’s way. It’s a proven fact that taking ski lessons reduces your risk of injury on the slopes.

Staying safe means staying within your level of proficiency, which includes keeping your speed safe in relation to how well you ski, and avoiding unpredictable maneuvers or stopping unnecessarily, and further includes paying attention to the things around you, such as how crowded the slope is, what the weather is like, and the condition of the slope. There may be times when you find yourself on a slope that causes you to feel unsafe; if so, side-step down it with your skis on. Pay close attention to posted signs (predominantly at the top and bottom of slopes, and in the convergence of slopes) and obey them.

Don’t try to ski yourself into shape, rather, prepare months before your planned ski trip with a good strengthening and conditioning program. Focus on aerobic training but complement it with some weight training also. The fitter and more conditioned you get, the longer you can ski for and the less bearing fatigue will have on you. It is dangerous to ski when you are tired, so frequent rest breaks are important, as is knowing your own physical limits.

When you stop for a rest break, make sure you rehydrate yourself and that you re-apply your sunscreen. Regularly drinking water is important as failure to do so can result in nausea, fainting or altitude sickness, and sunscreen (factor 30+) is essential, even on cloudy days, because the sun’s rays are stronger at high altitudes and the snow reflects its rays.

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