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With winter well on its way, so too is the arrival of snow-covered ski hills. While skiing and snowboarding can be a great source of fun for those who enjoy each sport, they can also cause very serious accidents if you’re not adequately prepared. As Canada’s largest personal injury law firm with offices in Ontario, Alberta, BC and Nova Scotia, Diamond and Diamond is well aware of the safety concerns that come with skiing and snowboarding each winter. Isaac Zisckind, a Partner at Diamond and Diamond, outlines 5 tips to ensure that you have a positive experience on the slopes.
1. Wear the Right Gear
“While it may sound simple, this is something that we see countless individuals failing to do each time they go skiing or snowboarding. Proper gear could be the difference between a minor fall and a major injury,” says Isaac Zisckind. First and foremost, it’s important to invest in a well-fitted helmet designed for winter sports to protect your head in case of falls or collisions. In addition to this, properly fitted goggles are essential to shield your eyes from wind, snow, and UV rays, while enhancing visibility on the slopes. Lastly, dressing in layers to stay warm and dry is always recommended when going skiing and snowboarding. This includes (but is not limited to):
- A coat
- Snow pants
- A quality pair of gloves
- A Toque
- A scarf
- Winter boots; and
- Warm socks
2. Know Your Limits
While the allure of conquering challenging slopes is enticing, it’s crucial to know your skill level and gradually progress. “Each resort will generally have runs clearly marked according to skill level,” says Zisckind, “As such, it’s crucial to make sure you’re going down a run that matches your skiing or snowboarding ability.” Attempting trails beyond your skill level may not only lead to accidents and injuries, but it could harm others on the slopes, too. Respect your comfort zone, and ALWAYS prioritize safety over trying to impress your friends.
3. Stay Informed About Weather Conditions
Weather conditions at skiing and snowboarding resorts can change rapidly, impacting visibility and surface conditions. As such, it’s not only critical to keep yourself informed about the weather forecast before heading to the slopes, but it’s also quite important to stay informed as the day or night progresses. Pay attention to any advisories or warnings issued by the ski resort, and ALWAYS take necessary precautions if threatening weather approaches.
4. Beware of Avalanches
For those venturing into backcountry skiing or snowboarding, it’s incredibly important to be aware of avalanches. As such, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the local avalanche forecast and understand the signs of potential avalanche terrain. “While avalanches may be less common in Ontario, they are a very real danger in the mountains of Alberta and BC, as well as many other places throughout Canada,” says Isaac Zisckind. “If you plan on going skiing where avalanches are more common, we would recommend taking an avalanche safety course to better familiarize yourself with warning signs and what to do in the event of an avalanche.”
5. Observe the Rules of the Slopes
Last but not least, it is also very important to follow the rules of the slopes. A safe environment for all skiers and snowboarders will lead to fewer accidents and more positive experiences on the hills. As such, it’s essential to respect trail signage, follow designated paths, and yield the right of way to others when necessary. We would recommend familiarizing yourself with the International Ski Federation’s (FIS) Responsibility Code, which outlines essential conduct to prevent accidents and promote harmony among skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
By wearing the right gear, knowing your limits, staying informed about weather conditions, and observing slope rules, you can enjoy a thrilling winter at ski resorts while minimizing the risk of accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured at a ski resort, it’s important to know your rights. Contact our firm today at 1-800-567-HURT.
About Jeremy Diamond
Jeremy Diamond is a lawyer and member of both Ontario and Florida Bars. Jeremy practices in the area of Plaintiff personal injury litigation. Click here to learn more about Jeremy Diamond.
