Stay safe on the slopes

Do you know the Skiway Code? With half term approaching we thought it would be a great time to recap the basic safety rules for staying safe when you’re snowboarding.

Otherwise known as the FIS Rules for the Conduct of Skiers and Snowboarders, the Skiway Code is a set of 10 simple guidelines to keep you safe on the slopes. Think of it as the highway code of snowboarding.  

Respect for others

Be nice

A skier or snowboard must behave in such a way that he or she does not endanger or prejudice others.

Control of speed

Take it easy and ride to the conditions

A skier or snowboard must move in control. He must adapt his speed and manner of skiing or snowboarding to his personal ability and to the prevailing conditions of terrain, snow and weather as well as to the density of traffic.

Choice of route

People in front have right of way

A skier or snowboarder coming from behind must choose his route in such a way that he does not endanger skiers or snowboarders ahead.

Overtaking

Give people space

A skier or snowboarder may overtake another skier or snowboarder above or below and to the right or to the left provided that he leaves enough space for the overtaken skier or snowboarder to make any voluntary or involuntary movement.

Entering, starting and moving upwards

Look around before you set off

A skier or snowboarder entering a marked run, starting again after stopping or moving upwards on the slopes must look up and down the slopes that he can do so without endangering himself or others.

Stopping on the slope

Stop out of the way and where you can be seen

Unless absolutely necessary, a skier or snowboard must avoid stopping on the slope in narrow places or where visibility is restricted. After a fall in such a place a skier or snowboarder mush move and clear of the slope as soon as possible.

Climbing and descending on foot

Keep to the side

A skier or snowboarder either climbing or descending on foot must keep to the side of the slope.

Respect for signs and markings

Obey the signs

A skier or snowboarder must respect all signs and markings

Assistance

Stop and help

At accidents, every skier or snowboarder is duty bound to assist

Identification

Make yourself know

Every skier or snowboarder and witness, whether a responsible party or not, must exchange names and addresses following an accident.

As well as following the Skiway Code, as a snowboarder always remember to put your board upside down or stick it in the snow when you unstrap both feet. The last thing you want is to watch your snowboard sliding down the piste without you!

If you’re snowboarding in Avoriaz or Morzine this February, check out our tips for avoiding the half term crowds and have a fun, safe holiday!

Read the full FIS Rules for the Conduct of Skiers and Snowboarders here