The exhilarating experience of flying (well, almost…) down snow slopes with nothing but a thin piece of metal blade separating you from ice is a powerful adrenalin rush that one wants to experience over and over again.
It is safe enough for every physically-fit body to enjoy, however, like any other adventure sports, accidents happen and you need to be well prepared to avoid them.
Skiing is not just sliding on snow. It actually needs a set of skills to be able to successfully glide on ice without losing your balance and falling on your rump. Since it involves speed, ice and balance the chances of falling down on your head is quite high. Here are some tips to keep you safe while you enjoy the excitement that skiing offers.
Do not make presumptions on your skill level. Most accidents occur because skiers take on a difficult slope way beyond than what their ability allows. Ask a professional to evaluate your skills and inquire which of the slopes are safe for you to try. This may be a daredevil’s sport but if you don’t have the goods to back it up, you better work on your skills first before you do the jump.
Skiing is undeniably a dangerous sport and accidents do happen on the slope. So, before you head off to your skiing trip, make sure that your policy insurance covers any eventualities that may happen while you’re at it. If not, take out a good insurance policy that will cover all activities that you are planning to engage-in during your skiing holiday.
Gear up appropriately. Helmets are indispensable, even the veterans use them so you have no excuse why you won’t. Goggles are also essential as the pristine blanket of snow can be blinding. Padded clothes and gloves should not only protect you from cold but should also cushion your body in case you fall. Make sure your boots are well fitted with a good ankle support to avoid blisters and shin splint typical of this sport.
You may feel cold and chilly with all the snow around you but if the sun is bright and glaring, make sure to apply sun block lotion on your face to avoid sun burn.
Do not ignore warnings on weather conditions. Ski resorts know their business and you are better off to rely on them than on your own personal assessment of the weather.
Pay attention to your body’s condition. Hypothermia and frostbites are common in extremely cold conditions. Hit the lodge if you get too cold and put off another round of skiing until the sun is back high up in the sky.
Warming up on beer and scotch may seem like a good idea in cold weather, but you better go easy on booze if you plan to hit the slopes. Alcohol will not only slow down your reflex, it will also affect your judgment. Do not jeopardize your safety on the slopes, make sure to keep safe by staying aware and alert on your feet.
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