The 10 rules of the slopes: sharing the piste safely

Skiing is all about having fun, but there are a few simple rules to bear in mind to make sure everyone can enjoy the slopes safely - particularly during the busy school holiday weeks. Here’s a quick reminder of good slope etiquette and the key safety rules to follow on the mountain.

Let’s start at the beginning

Queuing for the first lifts of the day, particularly during peak season, can test your patience. Follow these simple tips and everyone will get on their way a little more smoothly.

• Don’t be tempted to jump the queue.
• Take care not to damage anyone else’s skis or snowboard while you’re waiting.
• Don’t hold up the queue waiting for friends – arrange to meet them at the top instead.
• Be friendly! A smile and a quick chat can make the wait much more enjoyable.

1. Respect other slope users

Ski and snowboard responsibly, and make sure your actions don’t put other people on the mountain at risk.

2. Control your speed

Whether you’re skiing or snowboarding, always adapt your speed to your ability and the conditions around you. Take into account how busy the slope is, the snow conditions, visibility and the steepness of the terrain.

And as tempting as it might be, a race with your friends probably isn’t the best idea during the busy school holidays – however good a skier you are!

3. Choose your line carefully

Remember, the person ahead of you has priority. When skiing or snowboarding downhill, it’s your responsibility to choose a line that doesn’t put anyone below you at risk.

Put simply: make sure you can stop or change direction without crashing into someone ahead.

4. Overtake safely

You can overtake from either side, but always leave plenty of space between you and the skier or snowboarder you’re passing. They may change direction unexpectedly, so give them enough room to continue safely.

5. Rejoining a slope

If you’re setting off again, joining a piste or crossing another slope, always look uphill and downhill before moving. Make sure it’s safe before you set off.

6. Choose where you stop

It might sound like common sense, but avoid stopping in the middle of a piste or anywhere you can’t easily be seen, such as just below the brow of a hill.

If you need to wait for your group, move to the side of the piste. And if you fall, try to move out of the way as quickly and safely as you can.

7. Walking on the slopes

If you need to walk up or down a piste for any reason, keep to the side and stay out of the way of skiers and snowboarders coming downhill.

8. Pay attention to signs

Signs and markings are there for a reason. They can warn you about junctions, areas where you need to slow down, piste closures, avalanche risks and other hazards.

Keep an eye out and always follow the information and instructions provided.

9. In an emergency

If you witness an accident, alert the piste patrol and offer assistance if it is safe to do so. You’ll usually find the number for the local piste rescue service on your piste map or in the resort app.

In an emergency, you can also call 112, the European emergency number.

10. Carry ID

It’s a good idea to carry some form of identification with you while skiing or snowboarding. It can be important if you’re involved in an accident or need to provide your details after witnessing one.

If you’re unsure about any of these rules or have questions about staying safe on the slopes, speak to your Oxyski instructor or resort team. They’ll be happy to help.

Stay safe, respect others and enjoy the slopes!