Safety

Skiing and snowboarding can be enjoyed in many ways. Regardless of how you decide to enjoy the slopes, always show courtesy to others and be aware that there are elements of risk in skiing and snowboarding that common sense and personal awareness can help reduce.  The more people we can educate and get involved to help to spread the knowledge, the better!

Your Responsibility Code

Observe the code listed below and share with other skiers/snowboarders that you know.

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 onto a trail, look uphill and yield to others.
5. Always use devices to help 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.

Park Smart - Terrain Park and Freestyle Safety

If you are thinking about getting into freestyle skiing/snowboarding, or already are involved in freestyle skiing/snowboarding, it is important that you educate yourself on the proper use and progression of terrain parks and the features that you may use.

1. Start Small - Work your way up. Build your skills.
2. Make a plan - Every feature. Every time.
3. Always look - Before you drop.
4. Respect - The features, and others.
5. Take it easy - Know your limits. Land on your feet.

Tips For Children

Introducing children to skiing and/or snowboarding early opens a world of adventure, fun, laughter and memories, unsurpassed from many other sports and interests. They will be forever grateful when they become adults!

1. Go over the “Responsibility Code” (above) with your children.  Describe it in an age appropriate way, so they are able to understand what it means.
2. It is HIGHLY recommended that all children wear helmets while skiing or snowboarding. Make sure the helmet fits correctly - it is not something they should "grow into". Ask our Rental Shop or Loft Shop Staff for help in choosing the right size helmet.
3. Make sure children are dressed appropriately for the weather. Dress in layers, wear a hat, gloves or mittens (mittens are usually better for kids), a waterproof jacket, waterproof pants and long, thick socks.
4. Protect children from the sun.  They should wear sun protection, even on cloudy days.  Kids should also have sunglasses or goggles with them. 
5. Take advantage of our trained instructors, who specialize in teaching children - put your children in a lesson! Learn about our children's lessons on our Children's Lessons page.
6. Be aware of your child's physical, emotional and mental energy levels.  Stop skiing/snowboarding and come inside for a break as many times as needed, depending on your child.  For example, if the clothing layer next to their skin stays wet and they’re chilled, if they’re injured, have a problem with equipment or even if they’re simply worn out.
7. Make a meeting place if you get separated, and be sure your child can easily get to the meeting place on their own.  If they are not able to memorize your phone number, write it down and put it in their pocket.  Tell your child to look for an employee if they get separated. 
    

Tips - Prior To Hitting The Slopes

1. Get in shape and eat healthy. You’ll enjoy skiing/snowboarding more if you’re physically fit.
2. Review the "Responsibility Code" (above) so you are prepared to make safe choices while on the slopes.
3. Dress appropriately for the weather.  Your outer layers should be made of fabric that is water and wind-resistant. Dress in layers to accommodate your body’s constantly changing temperature. Additionally, be sure to wear a hat, gloves or mittens, a waterproof jacket, waterproof pants and long, thick socks.
4. Protect yourself from the sun. Wear sun protection, even on cloudy days.  It is also recommended to have sunglasses or goggles while on the slopes. 
5. It is HIGHLY recommended that all skiers/snowboarders wear helmets. Make sure the helmet fits correctly - Ask our Rental Shop or Loft Shop Staff for help in choosing the right size helmet.
6. Be sure to use appropriate ski and snowboard equipment. Skis, Snowboards, and Ski Blades must have metal edges and be approved for "ski resort" use. 

Tips - While On The Slopes

1. Follow the “Responsibility Code” (above).  
2. Skiing and snowboarding require a mental and physical presence. Do not use drugs or alcohol while skiing/snowboarding.
3. Take advantage of our highly trained instructors - Take a lesson! Learn about our lessons on our Daily Lessons page.
4. Be aware of the snow conditions and how they can change throughout the day (e.g. As conditions turn firm or icy, skiing/snowboarding gets harder and faster.) Begin each run slowly, so you can assess the conditions.  Check out our daily Snow Report for information on conditions.
5. Take a warm-up run at the start of each day, so you are prepared mentally and physically for the day ahead.
6. Drink plenty of water and be careful not to become dehydrated.
7. Be aware of your physical, emotional and mental energy level.  Stop skiing/snowboarding and come inside for a break as many times as needed throughout the day. Know your limits and stop before you become fatigued.