Ski and Snowboard Safety

Outdoor adventure activities provide valuable opportunities to develop independence. Successfully facing up to challenges and overcoming fears enhances the self-confidence of participants, with consequences in all aspects of life. Furthermore, such activities contribute greatly to health and fitness. Skiing and snowboarding can be breathtaking encounters but safety is paramount. Beginners must consult a certified instructor and be taught the appropriate competence and safety practices. Even experienced skiers / snowboarders should take a pre-season refresher course. This will help you to 'know' your snowboard or skis.

Avalanches

Avalanches rate alongside earthquakes as indiscriminate, inexorable, random forces that maim and kill. Most resorts now have websites with up-to-date information on avalanche risk. It is essential that such information be obtained before setting out. Additionally, avalanche warnings are displayed at all resorts. For example, France uses a system of flags to indicate avalanche risk. A plain yellow flag means that the risk of avalanche is low, while a black and yellow chequered flag indicates high risk and a plain black flag very high risk.

Avalanche First Aid

Before attempting any sort of rescue, ensure the area is safe. Try to gauge, as speedily as possible, which casualties are obviously fatally injured. Time is critical in the aftermath of an avalanche and the survivors alive will require complete concentration. If any victim is not breathing, commence CPR as soon as possible. For safety`s sake, assume a broken neck and minimise its movement. Immobilise unconscious casualties by holding the head and applying a neck splint, if available. Take all spinal safety measures until the victim is conscious.

Skiing Safety Equipment

An average skier can achieve speeds of 35 mph, so it is vital to wear the correct ski safety equipment. A ski helmet is essential and must be worn at all times, to prevent serious injury. Modern helmets look cool and sleek, too. For recreational skiing, an open-face helmet is recommended, being less bulky than full-face helmets designed for competition. For optimal protection, a helmet should be properly sized, with a snug, aligned fit, with the ear pads right against the ears.

Snowboarding Safety Equipment

Wrist Guards

Wrist injuries are common when riding snowboards, as a result of falling backwards onto the hands. Such impacts can cause sprains or fractures. Wrist guards will ease the force of such falls on the upper body.

Knee Pads

Most snowboarding knee injuries are caused by impacts that are particularly violent or from unforeseen angles. Knee pads, which can be worn between long underwear and snowboard pants, help prevent bruising and other injuries.

Helmet

Crashes with hard snow/ice, rocks or trees cause serious head injuries. Regardless of skill level, a helmet is essential at all times. Advancements in helmet technology and design have made them less bulky, more stylish and better ventilated. The full helmet, the warmest and most protective style, is recommended. Buy the best-quality model within the budget