Tips: Safety on the Slopes

By Tammie Thompson

It will be a busy holiday season at resorts around the country. Lots of kids and families out enjoying the snow. Lots of children with funny hats and silly headbands. But now is not the time to forget about helmet safety. Consider the Consumer Product Safety Commission's findings that wearing a helmet while skiing or snowboarding could reduce your child's risk of a head injury by 53%.

Wow. With all the cool graphics and lightweight helmets out there, you are doing a serious disservice to your child by not providing one while on the slopes. The way a helmet fits is important too. Make sure the strap is snug under the chin and that the helmet meets the forehead (not pushed back on the head). It should not wobble around either. Most ski or board shops offer a helmet check for no charge. Many rental shops include helmets with ski or snowboard rentals. Or you can rent a helmet separately. Be sure to ask.

Other safety issues:

• Avoid loose fitting clothing and dangling strings or straps. They can get caught in the lifts and cause injury.
• Make sure your child has the right equipment. Borrowing a neighbor's snowboard will cost you in the long run if it is not fitted properly. Bindings should always be checked for proper fit and settings.
• Ski and snowboard in control.
• Follow the rules of the slopes.
• Never ski or board alone. Make sure someone is there in case you get hurt or lost.

January is NSAA (National Ski Areas Association) National Safety Month. Ski areas across the country will showcase their safety education. Some are creating special events during the month to heighten the awareness for slope safety. Look for info on the National Kids' Poster contest. Students are asked to create a poster related to any one of the seven points in "Your Responsibility Code". Prizes will be awarded and the winning poster will be featured in SKI Magazine's October issue.

Many areas are participating with SnowMonsters, a kid-friendly set of characters that educate kids on the rules of the slopes. More information on SnowMonsters.

Spend some time going over "Your Responsibility Code" with your child.

Your Responsibility Code

1. Always stay in control and be able to stop or avoid other people or objects.
2. People ahead of you have the right of way. It is your responsibility to avoid them.
3. You must not stop where you obstruct a trail or are not visible from above.
4. Whenever starting downhill or merging into a trail, look uphill and yield to others.
5. Always use devises to prevent runaway equipment.
6. Observe all posted signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
7. Prior to using any lift, you must have the knowledge and ability to load, ride and unload safely.

SnowMonsters also offers a video explaining "Your Responsibility Code". Check it out!