THE BOOK - Whistler Blackcomb

RESPECT
THE BOOK
CONTENTS
RESPECT – THE BOOK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1
RESPECT YOURSELF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Lifestyle and Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
During your Day on the Hill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
RESPECT OTHERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Alpine Responsibility Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Etiquette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
RESPECT THE MOUNTAIN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Using the Ski Lifts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Lift Tickets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Weather . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Gear – the Skis and Boards beneath your feet . . . . . . . . . . . 20
BIBLIOGRAPHY OF RESOURCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
STUDENT QUIZ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
All photos courtesy of Eric Berger and Paul Morrison.
Mountain resorts provide one of the most exciting playgrounds
anywhere for self-expression. Whether on one board or two,
the kinds of things that mountain athletes are doing these
days are mind-blowing. And the facilities get better every year.
Obviously the Resorts want you to have a good time. They just
want you to keep one thing in mind. When it comes right down
to it, it’s all about Respect. Respect Yourself, Respect Others
and Respect the Mountain.
Put snow and gravity together, and you get one of the most
fun playgrounds on the planet. But you have to have it
together in the mountains if you want to have fun. When it
comes to confrontations between mountains and humans,
humans mostly lose.
There are signs and codes to help us all over the mountain.
And if you’re not sure what they mean, ask someone. It’s
mostly common sense - like making sure you’re riding under
control in crowded areas, especially if you’re riding faster than
they are. Respect other riders and their space.
RESPECT YOURSELF
You have to take care of yourself first. There are certain things that you
should look after before you get onto the snow that will help you have the
best time skiing or boarding that you can.
LIFESTYLE AND FITNESS - Skiing and Snowboarding are sports, and like
any sport, your body is going to exert itself over the course of the day. An
active lifestyle demands a healthy lifestyle that includes everything from
proper meals and snacks to stretching and exercise for training. You will be
able to ride longer in the day at a higher performance level and you will
reduce the risk of injuring yourself if you take good care of your body and
make sure that it is ready for the day on the hill.
DURING YOUR DAY ON THE HILL
LESSONS - You wouldn’t get behind the wheel of a car without taking
lessons first so why would you go on the hill without taking some? Lessons
are a great way to learn to ride in a group, with your friends. Take a lesson,
or join a club, and your instructor or coach will take you to the terrain that
is most appropriate for you, and help you develop the skills to take you to
wherever you want to go on the mountain. Every Resort has a Ski and
Snowboard School that offers all sorts of different lessons, from
introductions for first timers to high-performance lessons that will hone
your skills in the Race course, or the Terrain Park. Contact your resort to
find out what they have to offer.
RIDE WITH A BUDDY - Always ride with a buddy, even if you are not
taking a lesson. Make sure that you have established places to meet on
every run. Imagine being on a hill where you have never ridden before and
all of a sudden you are by yourself and have no idea where you are or
where you are going. When that happens, and it’s towards the end of the
day, you will be thankful that you have a buddy who is watching out for
you, that will help find you and bring you back to familiar ground.
ACCIDENTS HAPPEN - Although our goal is to help reduce injuries and
make sure you have a safe day on the hill, there is still a chance that you or
your friend might be in an accident. If it does happen, follow these steps:
1. RECOGNIZING THE SITUATION - Recognize that an accident has
occurred. Acting quickly will help the victim.
2. PERSONAL SAFETY – Prevent further injuries to you, the victim, and
other skiers/riders. The international signal for a skiing accident is a pair
of crossed skis approximately 10 meters uphill from the accident site.
This tells oncoming skiers to avoid the area, as well as alert the Ski
Patrol that assistance is needed. If you are below a knoll where other
riders may not be able to see you, be sure to cross skis or place your
board across the run high enough up the hill so that others will be able
to see them.
3. GETTING HELP – Advise area employees or the Ski Patrol as soon as
possible. Always ask a fallen skier/rider if they require help, or make that
decision yourself if they are unable to. Send someone for the Ski Patrol
immediately, making sure that they know the exact location of the
accident such as the run that you are on, distance from the top or bot
tom of the run, and the run name if you know it. Most chairlift and T-bar
huts have phones in them, and the lift attendants can often call Patrol
for you.
4. WHILE WAITING – Help by clearing the accident site and keeping it safe.
Keep in mind that the Ski Patrol may take some time to arrive, as they
will have to ride the lift and ski down to the accident scene.
• The victim should be kept warm and if it does not disturb the injury, an
extra jacket should be placed on the victim’s shoulders or underneath
for the victim to sit on. Replacing the victim’s toque or glove may be
appreciated if it does not cause any disturbance.
• The victim should never be given anything to eat or drink, even if they
ask for something. If people stop to see the accident, politely ask that
they keep on going so that they will not create a hazard by blocking the
hill.
• Never remove a victim’s skis or board, or unfasten their boots.
• However, other equipment that is not attached to the victim, such as
ski poles or loose skis, should be set aside to avoid someone running
into it. This also clears the area for the Ski Patrol.
• If a major accident has occurred, ask around to see if there were any
witnesses. Perhaps someone can provide details of how the accident
happened. It may be necessary to obtain names and addresses of
witnesses.
5. THE SKI PATROL ARRIVES – Once the Ski Patrol arrives, they will be
in charge. They may ask for assistance or details of the accident. Offer
to help in any way possible. Spectators are not welcome at an accident
scene, so if your assistance is not required, please leave the Ski
Patrol to do their job.
RESPECT OTHERS
ALPINE RESPONSIBILITY CODE - For every sport from Mountain Biking
to Wakeboarding, there is a basic set of safety rules. The same goes for
Skiing and Snowboarding – your set of rules is the Alpine Responsibility
Code. This is a basic set of rules for conduct on the hill; a way of getting
around just like the rules of the road while you are driving. Know the code.
ALWAYS STAY IN CONTROL. YOU MUST BE ABLE TO STOP, OR AVOID
OTHER PEOPLE OR OBJECTS.
The number of skiers/riders on the slopes is increasing as a result of the
sport’s growing popularity and higher lift capacities. As a result, control is
more important than ever. Control means being able to avoid a collision or
accident, as well as being safe if another skier/rider falls close to you, or if
there is a sudden change in the terrain. Ski or ride defensively. Always be
prepared for the unexpected. Be aware of where others are on the run and
ski/ride under control so that stopping and/or avoiding collisions can be
easily done.
PEOPLE AHEAD OF YOU HAVE THE RIGHT-OF-WAY. IT IS YOUR
RESPONSIBILITY TO AVOID THEM.
A skier/rider’s path or line is determined by watching other’s movements
and anticipating their direction changes. Uphill skiers/riders must avoid the
person downhill and never ski or ride close enough to that person to scare
them or make them lose their concentration and control. This is especially
true for Snowboarders, since they have a blind side; they have to be even
more aware of what is going on around them.
Novice skiers/riders tend to make wider, less predictable turns and will
sometimes traverse from one side of the run to the other. Downhill skiers/
riders have the right of way, however they should not shoot across the hill
without warning, or cut off other skiers/riders. Always be in control. If you
have stopped on a slope, always check uphill before starting again to avoid
interfering with others.
DO NOT STOP WHERE YOU OBSTRUCT A TRAIL OR ARE NOT
VISIBLE FROM ABOVE.
When you are stopping on a trail take a quick look to consider the general
pattern of skier/rider traffic. It is usually best to stop at the side of the
trail, in view, but out of the way of oncoming skiers/riders. Keep in mind
that you will want to be seen by others coming down the slope, but not in a
spot that will cause the oncoming skier/rider difficulty in stopping or changing direction to avoid you.
BEFORE STARTING DOWNHILL OR MERGING INTO A TRAIL, LOOK
UPHILL AND YIELD TO OTHERS.
When you are driving, you stop at the end of your driveway before entering
the street. It’s the same when you are skiing or riding. Make sure that you
are not going to get in the way of other riders coming down the hill and
that the trail is clear before you get going.
IF YOU ARE INVOLVED IN OR WITNESS A COLLISION OR ACCIDENT,
YOU MUST REMAIN AT THE SCENE AND IDENTIFY YOURSELF TO
THE SKI PATROL.
As with all collisions or accidents, it is important to make sure that
whomever was involved is taken care of by the Patrol. The Patrol is going
to want to know the details and to establish the cause of the accident.
Once the Ski Patrol arrives, they will take control at the accident scene.
Witnesses will be asked to provide any information they may have to the
patrollers, and may be asked to help control the public. Offer to help in any
way possible, however if your assistance is not required, please leave the
area so that the Ski Patrol can do their job.
ALWAYS USE PROPER DEVICES TO HELP CONTROL RUNAWAY
EQUIPMENT.
Any skateboarder knows not to leave his board alone - it’s going to take off.
A skier/rider must use a braking or retention system at all times. Skis with
broken or missing ski brakes are not allowed on a hill and must be replaced
with a pair with functioning brakes. It is also mandatory that snowboards
have a brake or retention device. Runaway skis or snowboards without
proper braking systems can cause serious injury, even death.
OBSERVE AND OBEY ALL POSTED SIGNS AND WARNINGS.
This one is simple; signs are posted for important reasons. There are directional signs, level of expertise signs, and warning signs. These signs must
be obeyed at all times as they are posted to alert you of potential hazards
and obstacles that you might not have seen. Signs like the one at the top
of Terrain Parks have details on them that you need to read. Stop and take
a second to make sure that you understand them.
KEEP OFF CLOSED TRAILS AND CLOSED AREAS.
Ski trails and areas are closed for good reason. There may not be enough
snow on a run to safely navigate it, or there may be so much new snow
that there is Avalanche Danger that the Patrol has not yet been able to fix.
There may be a race taking place on a run, or there may be machinery
grooming or preparing the run. In any case, the run is closed for good reason, so heed the sign.
YOU MUST NOT USE LIFTS OR TERRAIN IF YOUR ABILITY IS
IMPAIRED THROUGH USE OF ALCOHOL OR DRUGS.
Judgment, coordination, and reaction times may all be impaired by the use
of alcohol or drugs. This impairment can result in serious injury when on a
ski slope. Remember to ski or ride responsibly at all times.
YOU MUST HAVE SUFFICIENT PHYSICAL DEXTERITY, ABILITY, AND
KNOWLEDGE TO SAFELY LOAD, RIDE, AND UNLOAD LIFTS. IF IN
DOUBT, ASK A LIFT ATTENDANT.
There are a number of types of lifts ranging from rope tows, t-bars, and
platter-pulls to multi-person chairlifts and gondolas. If you are unfamiliar
with a particular style of lift, ask the attendant for assistance. Chairlifts are
equipped with restraining devices that should always be pulled into position
as soon as possible after sitting down.
ETIQUETTE
There are lots of other people on the hill riding at the same time that you
are. Other than the rules of the road that The Alpine Responsibility Code
outlines, there are certain ways of doing things that will help you make
your way around the hill a bit more smoothly. This is especially true in the
Terrain Park where there are more people in a smaller area than elsewhere
on the hill. If you are of an ability level high enough that you have spent
time in the Park or Pipe, you have probably encountered some Park
manners already.
As riders gather on the in-run for a jump or obstacle, there is a pecking
order of using terrain park features and half pipes. Generally, this is first
come first serve as in any other sort of line up. However, these lines can be
a bit disorderly. One common mannerism is to announce when it is your
turn to go. This is often done by raising your arm and calling “Dropping
Next”. What is most important though is to be aware of what is going on
around you in the park and pipe, and making sure that you are using the
same signals as everyone else so that communication between riders is
easy. The best way to learn about this is to ask the other riders, or even
better, take a Terrain Park Lesson when you are able to so that the instructor or coach can teach you the right way of doing things for that Resort.
RESPECT THE MOUNTAIN
The mountain that you are riding on presents the most danger to you, and
is the most variable and hardest thing to predict when you are riding. In
order to help deal with these risks and hazards, there are some fairly cut
and dry things to know and do. There are signs that have been posted by
the Resort to let you know what is going on around you. There is clothing
that is designed to keep you warm and dry, and protect you from the
Weather that can change very quickly. There is dependable ski and
snowboard equipment that can help you stay in control when you use it
properly and maintain it well. There are helmets that are designed to help
protect you if you do get into an accident.
USING THE SKI LIFTS - There are common courtesies and basic
guidelines for riding the various surface and aerial ski lifts with which, for
your safety and the safety of others, you should be familiar.
• Obey all posted instructions.
• Do not use a lift until you are familiar with its operation. Watch and
learn or ask for assistance.
• Slow down before approaching the entrance to a lift.
• Load and unload only at designated area.
• Be polite and courteous at the loading area.
• Do not bounce or otherwise abuse lift equipment.
• Make sure no loose clothing is caught in lift before unloading.
• Move quickly away from unloading areas.
• If a lift stops, do not attempt to get off. Remember, if there is a
mechanical problem, area personnel will provide assistance.
When riding a lift with small children, help them load and unload.
SIGNS
CHAIR LIFTS - It is important that you
learn how to get on and off a lift
properly. A Lift Attendant will be more
than happy to provide assistance if you
have any questions. Be sure to ask
before you load though, not as you sit
down on the lift.
Take your poles off of your wrists and be
sure to point them forward when you get
onto the lift. The attendant has no need
to get poked by your ski pole.
Always lower the restraining device as
soon as possible after sitting down. It is
a good thing to let the other riders on
the chair know that you are putting it
down though so that heads don’t get hit.
Swinging or bouncing could cause
mechanical failure or dislodging of the
cable that may result in injury to yourself
or others.
Remember to keep your ski tips or board
up to avoid them catching on a platform
or snow surface. You don’t want to be
the person who gets knocked off of the
chair because you weren’t paying
attention.
At many Resorts, the distance to unloading area will be indicated in meters at the
bottom of the sign. The arrows indicate
the direction to take once you unload
from the chair. Be sure that you go the
right way to avoid collisions.
Lift the restraining device when you see
this sign and prepare to unload making
sure that your clothing is not caught and
your ski/board and pole tips are raised.
Be careful not to unload too soon.
It is time to unload. The arrows indicate
the direction to take once you unload
from the chair. When you have unloaded,
move clear of the off-loading area as
quickly as possible to allow room for
those coming behind.
This is for the attendant’s use in case an
emergency stop is required.
When using a t-bar, rope tow or platterpull always stay in the track. Veering off
the track may cause the cable to derail
and the lift to stop.
If you fall when going up the tow, move
immediately off of the track in the
direction of the arrows.
T-bars should never be placed between a
skier’s legs. In case of a fall, the skier
could be dragged.
Make sure that scarves, hats, or any
other clothing articles are secured to
avoid catching on the lift.
LEVELS OF DIFFICULTY
Each run on the mountain has a level of difficulty assigned to it. This is to
let you know what ability level is required in order to enjoy the run safely.
Become familiar with the trails and respect their posted level of difficulty. If
you are a novice, choose runs designed for your capability. Beginners on an
advanced slope may find themselves in a precarious situation where their
safety or that of the riders around them is in jeopardy. Do not be pressured
to go down a run that is above your ability. The same applies to intermediate and expert skier/riders. On the other hand, an expert skier or rider in a
beginner’s area may be intimidating and potentially dangerous if they are
riding faster and more aggressively than the other riders on the run.
Runs marked with this symbol are the
easiest at the ski area. These runs are
designed for the Beginner/Novice skier
or rider.
Runs marked with this symbol are
designed for the Intermediate skier/rider.
They will usually have a steeper grade, or
can be narrower than the “Easiest” runs.
Runs marked with this symbol are
designed for the Advanced skier/rider.
These runs will be steeper and narrower
than the More Difficult runs, and will
have challenging terrain. Runs marked
as Double Black Diamonds will be the
most difficult on the mountain and are
for Expert skiers/riders only.
A sign with this symbol is placed in a
spot that requires a skier/rider to
proceed with caution. It may be flagging
a rock or stump protruding through the
snow, or is a caution that the run is
narrowing or the slope is changing at
that point. Always slow down when you
see this sign.
TERRAIN PARK
This sign is one of the most important on the mountain. It is imperative
that every rider reads this and understands it completely prior to entering
the Terrain Park. The rules of the Park and the risks involved are clearly
stated.
Snowboarding and skiing involve the risk of injury, and airborne maneuvers
increase this risk. Inverted aerials substantially increase the risk of serious
injury and are not permitted. Please note that anyone using the Terrain
Park assumes the risk of any injury that may occur. Don’t allow yourself to
be pressured into entering the Terrain Park, or trying a jump that is above
your riding ability.
A Terrain Park is also marked for levels of difficulty. It important to know
that only riders with Advanced Skills should enter into the park and
attempt any of the jumps. Terrain Park feature markings/ratings are not the
same as ski runs. Using Terrain Park features requires more skill than skiing
or riding on a marked ski run. These ability ratings are different than those
of the other runs on the hill, or of lesson levels that you may have been in
at your Resort. An intermediate marking on a terrain park feature, means
that it is intermediate within the scale of the rest of the park – you must
still be at an advanced level to use that feature, but in terms of the scale of
the rest of the park, that feature is intermediate. If you are not sure if you
have the skills to go in the Terrain Park, go and get a lesson from one of
the Resort’s Certified Instructors.
Marginal snow conditions mean that there is not
enough snow to safely navigate the run. There may
be rocks, bare ground, tree stumps or any other
ground cover on the run instead of snow. If you see
one of these signs, avoid the area and take another
run.
SIGN # 1 - Closed Avalanche
Danger indicates an area is
temporarily closed while
avalanche control is underway
or while an avalanche hazard
exists. Violators will have
skiing/riding privileges
suspended.
SIGN #2 - Indicates an area is
permanently closed for safety
reasons including cliff and
cornice danger. Violators will
have skiing/riding privileges
suspended.
SIGN #3 - Indicates a trail/area
is temporarily closed for safety
reasons including lack of snow
or hazardous skiing/riding conditions. Violators will have
skiing/riding privileges
suspended.
VIOLATORS OF ANY OF THE ABOVE CLOSURES WILL RESULT IN
SUSPENSION OF SKIING PRIVILEGES.
SIGN #4 - Orange Rectangle - Ski Area Boundary Indicates the skier has
reached the ski area boundary. The area beyond the boundary is not
patrolled or controlled.
ANY PERSON REQUIRING EVACUATION FROM A CLOSED AREA OR OUTSIDE
THE SKI AREA BOUNDARY WILL BE REQUIRED TO PAY ALL RESCUE COSTS.
This Sign indicates that the run is closed for skiing
or riding. Runs may be closed for various reasons
including hazardous conditions, avalanche danger,
extreme cliff areas or any of a number of reasons.
Violation of run closure will result in suspension of
skiing/riding privileges.
Do not ski or ride on runs marked with this sign.
LIFT TICKETS
All skiers/riders require a lift ticket prior to getting onto the ski lift or riding
down from an elevated base area. A lift ticket allows access to the ski area
runs, however there is a responsibility, which comes with it. By wearing a
lift ticket the skier/rider is agreeing to the restrictions of the mountain and
takes on the responsibility of respecting the rights of all other skiers and
riders
A lift ticket will be issued for the day or days you are skiing/riding. These
dates will be printed on the front of the ticket. On the reverse of the ticket
is the Exclusion of Liability. The ski area requests that everyone accepting
a lift ticket with the intent to use it read this information.
The Exclusion of Liability conditions are also found on a sign at the Lift
Ticket window at the ski area and at other prominent areas such as Ski
School Sales Desks and in visible areas in Lodges. Everyone who purchases
a lift ticket should be aware of these conditions and realize that they are
accepting responsibility for their own safety.
Samples of the Exclusion of Liability Ticket Window Sign and the Lift Ticket
itself are found on the following page. Please read the terms carefully and
make sure you understand the responsibility that comes with the purchase
and wearing of the lift ticket.
LIFT TICKET WINDOW SIGN, EXCLUSION OF LIABILITY
NOTICE TO ALL SKIERS, SNOWBOARDERS & LIFT PASSENGERS
EXCLUSION OF LIABILITY - ASSUMPTION OF RISK - JURISDICTION
THESE CONDITIONS WILL AFFECT YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS
PLEASE READ CAREFULLY
As a condition of use of the ski area facilities, the Ticket Holder assumes all risk
of personal injury, death or property loss resulting from any cause whatsoever
including but not limited to: the risks, dangers and hazards of skiing,
snowboarding and other recreational activities; the use of ski lifts; collision with
natural or man-made objects or with skiers, snowboarders or other persons;
travel within or beyond the ski area boundaries; or negligence, breach of
contract, or breach of statutory duty of care on the part of the ski area
operator and its employees, agents, representatives, sponsors, successors and
assigns (hereinafter collectively referred to as “the ski area operator”). The
Ticket Holder agrees that the ski area operator shall not be liable for any such
personal injury, death or property loss and releases the ski area operator and
waives all claims with respect thereto. The Ticket Holder agrees that any
litigation involving the ski area operator shall be brought solely within this
Province or Territory and shall be within the exclusive jurisdiction of the Courts
of this Province or Territory. The Ticket Holder further agrees that these
conditions and any rights, duties and obligations as between the ski area
operator and the Ticket Holder shall be governed by and interpreted solely in
accordance with the laws of this Province or Territory and no other jurisdiction.
THE SKI AREA OPERATOR’S LIABILITY IS EXCLUDED BY THESE CONDITIONS
PLEASE ADHERE TO THE ALPINE RESPONSIBILITY CODE AND BE
RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR OWN SAFETY IN ALL ACTIVITIES
WEATHER
The weather in mountainous terrain is variable and can change at a
moment’s notice at, or might change drastically with the elevation. Before
you leave home for a day on the hill, be sure to check the weather forecast
and dress appropriately. Most resorts have a snow phone that you can call
to hear a regularly updated message on the day’s conditions and forecast.
CLOTHING - This section will discuss the necessity of clothing that can be
layered, that is weather proof, and is appropriate for the current weather –
jeans and hockey jackets are not enough for winter storms, and one piece
down suits are too much for spring skiing in April.
Clothing should be chosen for the day that can be layered and adjusted if
the conditions of the day change. There is always a very high chance that
you might get wet one way or another. Be sure to also choose clothing that
is going to keep you dry.
You must be prepared for all types of weather when on the slopes; from
mild spring days to blustery, winter cold. Keep the following in mind:
• Cold weather clothing should keep the wearer dry and warm, not hot.
Don’t over dress for the day – bear in mind that you will be exercising
and exerting yourself, not spending the day standing still.
• Layering works best, either a few thick, warm layers, or many thin
layers. The outside layer should always be water and wind proof.
• An example of suitable clothing would be: synthetic underlayer such as
DriFit, Polypropylene or Capilene; an insulating layer such as fleece or
wool; pants and jacket that have a weather proof shell such as Gore-Tex
or nylon style material.
• Jeans sweat pants, cotton or wool worn as an outer layer will pick up
snow and leave the skier/rider wet and cold and are inappropriate as
outerwear. Sweat pants and long underwear can be layered under a
water/wind proof outer layer. Jeans have no place on the ski hill.
• Of course wearing a helmet on your head is the best choice. The same
materials that protect your head are very insulating to keep the cold out
and your body heat in. If you make the choice not to wear a helmet, be
sure that you wear a toque or beanie that is made of wool or synthetics
to keep you warm.
• Neck tubes are preferred over scarves as they are worn inside cloth
ing therefore avoiding any chance of catching on the ski lift. If a scarf
is worn, it should always be tucked inside clothing.
• A warm pair of gloves or mittens is essential. In general, mittens keep
hands warmer than gloves, however either one should always have a
synthetic or leather outer shell for protection from snow and abrasions.
• Goggles or sunglasses protect the eyes from sun, wind, and blowing
snow. Be aware of the weather conditions when choosing appropriate
eyewear. Goggles are the best choice in blowing, winter conditions.
• Ski/snowboard boots should be worn with a single pair of good fitting,
comfortable wool or synthetic socks that are not too thick. Too many
socks stuffed into boots can cut the circulation and increase the chance
of cold feet.
HELMETS
The National Ski Areas Association and Canada West Ski Areas Association recommends that parents, skiers and snowboarders educate themselves about the benefits and limitations of helmets and make informed choices for themselves and their
children. Remember, each skier’s or snowboarder’s behaviour has as much or more
to do with their safety as does any piece of safety equipment. Always ski and ride
responsibly.
Will I be safer wearing a helmet?
Snowsports helmets can make a
difference in reducing or preventing head
injuries and a lot of skiers and
snowboarders today are choosing to
wear them. However, helmets do have
limits and users need to be aware of
them.
Why are helmets becoming so popular?
In addition to offering an added degree
of protection, snowsports helmets are
now designed to be lightweight,
comfortable, warm and fashionable.
Are there helmets specifically designed
for snowsports?
Yes, snowsports helmets are insulated for
cold weather and provide better coverage
and impact protection than other sport
helmets such as bicycle helmets. Be sure
the helmet you choose meets the current
snowsports helmet design standards.
What are some tips to assist me if I
decide to buy a helmet?
The most important consideration is fit.
A properly fitted helmet should be snug
and not obscure vision or hearing. Your
local ski shop can help you identify the
best brand for your head shape and
confirm a proper fit.
Where can I get more information
about helmets?
Call or visit your local ski and snowboard
shop or visit a helmet manufacturer’s
website or go to www.lidsonkids.org
GEAR, THE SKIS AND BOARDS BENEATH YOUR FEET
While it may not be crucial to have the best and most modern equipment
available to ski and ride on, it is essential to have skis and boards that are
safe to use and that adhere to the Alpine Responsibility Code.
Feel confident that the equipment that you rent from your Resort will be
safe and in good condition for you to use. However, you may find that you
want to own ski or snowboard equipment of your own.
There are some snowboards on the market in particular that are more
suited to the backyard than to the Ski Hill. Snowboards should all have
metal edges and fully adjustable bindings. Ski bindings should only ever be
mounted or adjusted by ski shop professionals. When you buy your first set
of gear, make sure that you go to a sports shop that specializes in Ski and
Snowboard Equipment. A good sales person will be able to help you figure
out what sort of equipment you need based on what your experience level
is, and what sort of skiing or riding you are looking to do. Ski and
Snowboard Equipment can seem expensive to purchase. There are certain
times of year such as the beginning and ending of the Ski Season when
shops tend to put their stock on sale.
Purchasing your equipment is really only the first step to a long
relationship with your skis or board. Your equipment needs to be tuned
and waxed regularly. Waxing helps maintain the base of your skis or board,
ensuring good performance and longevity for your gear. Ask your ski and
snowboard shop how often to tune and maintain your gear.
Boots should fit snugly and comfortably, but not like a pair of sneakers.
These are sporting equipment that are designed to make your skis or boar
an extension of your feet and legs. They are going to feel a bit constricting
at first, and may seem odd in their snug fit. Make sure that when you buy
boots, a qualified boot fitter at your shop fits you properly for the best
boots for you.
BIBLIOGRAPHY OF RESOURCES
THE CANADA WEST SKI AREA ASSOCIATION – get information and
links to the Resorts in your area
www.cwsaa.org
CANADIAN ASSOCIATION OF SNOWBOARD INSTRUCTORS,
CANADIAN SKI INSTRUCTORS ALLIANCE, CANADIAN SKI COACHING
FEDERATION – become an Instructor or Coach
www.snowpro.com
CANADIAN AVALANCHE ASSOCIATION COURSES
www.avalanche.ca
ST JOHN AMBULANCE FIRST AID COURSES
www.sja.ca
CANADIAN SKI PATROL ASSOCIATION
www.csps.ca
COMMUNITY WEB PAGES – meet people who share your passion for
skiing and snowboarding
www.snowboard.com
www.newschoolers.com
www.biglines.com
STUDENT QUIZ
How much were you paying attention to all of this? Lets find out…
1. What are the 3 things that you should respect most on the mountain?
2. What are 2 reasons for taking a lesson?
3. List 5 things that you should do if someone you are with gets hurt while
skiing or riding:
4. Alpine Responsibility Code:
a. Why should you Ski or Ride in control at all times?
b. Where should you look when you approach another skier or rider?
c. Why shouldn’t you stop in a blind spot?
d. What should you look for when you start into a trail?
e. Why do skis have brakes and why do snowboards have leashes?
f. Why should you read posted signs?
5. Signs:
a. What does a Green Circle mean on a ski run?
b. What does a Blue Square mean on a ski run?
c. What does a Black Diamond mean on a ski run?
d. What does a Green Circle mean in the terrain park?
e. What does a Blue Square mean in the terrain park?
f. What does a Black Diamond mean in the terrain park?
g. Where and why would a ski hill put up a “Closed” sign?
6. What 10 things should you bring with you to the ski hill?
STUDENT QUIZ ANSWERS
1. The 3 things that should be respected are “Yourself”, “Others” and “The
Mountains”.
2. Any of the following: Great way to learn skills, Ride with Friends, Find Terrain
that is most appropriate. Also acceptable is “Being Able to Skip Lift Lines” but the
others are best.
3. Any of the following: Recognizing the Situation, Personal Safety (prevent
injuries, place crossed skis above accident site), Get Help (advise ski patrol, make
sure patrol knows exact location) Keep accident site safe (victim should be kept
warm, refrain from giving victim food or drink, ask passers by to continue on,
clear away equipment that is not attached to the victim, ask around for witnesses if
it is a major injury) Assist in helping the Patrol in any way that they ask.
4. Alpine Responsibility Code:
a. Ski or Ride in control so that you can stop or avoid other skiers/snowboarders
and or objects.
b. When approaching another skier or boarder you should always look ahead and
not behind you so that you can avoid the people downhill from you.
c. You should never stop where you could block a trail or are not visible from
above.
d. All skiers or riders must wear ski brakes or retention straps to help prevent
run away skis or snowboards.
e. Why do skis have brakes and why do snowboards have leashes?
f. Always read posted signs in order to ski or ride safely and avoid dangerous
areas.
5. Signs:
a. Ski Runs marked with a green circle are the easiest at the ski area.
b. Ski Runs marked with a blue square are usually steeper and narrower than
easiest runs, and are designed for intermediate skiers or boarders.
c. Ski Runs marked with a Black Diamond are the most difficult at the ski area
and are more challenging, steeper and narrower than the intermediate runs;
they are designed for advanced skiers and riders.
d. Terrain Park features marked with a green circle are the easiest effects within
the Terrain Park – you must still have advanced skiing or riding skills to use them
though!
e. Terrain Park features marked with a blue circle are of intermediate level within
the Terrain Park – you must still have advanced skiing or riding skills to use them
though!
f. Terrain Park features marked with a black diamond are the most difficult
effects within the Terrain Park – you must still have advanced skiing or
riding skills to use them though!
g. A resort might put up a closed sign for any of a number of reasons: Avalanche
Danger, Cliffs, Cornices, Lack of Snow, and the presence of machinery or
groomers.
6. Answers to this question are many; use your judgment in responding to
student’s ideas.