IN CASE OF AN ACCIDENT
Knowledge of your own capabilities is an important safety factor. Individual skills and fitness levels vary greatly. What is quite safe for one person to attempt may be foolhardy for someone else.
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SKI PATROL AND RESCUE SERVICES
Every year people become lost in the mountains and ski areas of the alpine country. To care for people in the snow, all ski resorts maintain skilled Ski Patrols throughout winter months.
IF YOU NEED TO MAKE A TEMPORARY CAMP (BIVOUAC)
If you are lost and any party member is fatigued or you are not sure of your ability to navigate to known country, you will need to camp and await assistance.
SKI TOURING AND BUSHWALKING
Ski touring and bushwalking are great ways of enjoying the alpine environment all year round. Whether you plan a day trip or extended ski tour or bushwalk, the following information will help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
SKI AND SNOWBOARDING SCHOOL
Most ski resorts offer complete ski and board riding school facilities at all levels for downhill, cross-country skiing and snowboarding.
SNOWBOARDING
Snowboards can be ridden on most slopes in any snow conditions. However, resorts are still monitoring the sport and, although accepted, restrictions may be placed upon snowboarders.
CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING
Cross-country skiing is a pleasant way to enjoy the alpine environment, but as with all alpine activities, you must plan ahead and prepare for your cross-country ski outing.
LIFT RIDING
There are two types of lifts: aerial (chairlifts, gondolas, [...]
ALPINE SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING: PLANNING AND SAFETY
In Australia, most on-slope accidents occur on sunny days when people ski and ride faster or when the slopes and trails are more crowded.
TOBOGGANING
Tobogganing in specially prepared areas is one way of enjoying the snow. Tobogganing can be dangerous and great care should be taken. Parents should ensure adequate supervision is provided when children are tobogganing.
PRE-SEASON FITNESS
It is strongly recommended that those going to the snowfields prepare themselves well in advance for their activity by participating in some form of pre-season fitness program to get fit to go skiing or boarding.
HYPOTHERMIA: PREVENTION, RECOGNITION AND TREATMENT
Hypothermia is a lowering of the body’s core temperature, which can result in death, and can occur as a result of: Accidental immersion in cold water. Inadequate protection from the cold environment, especially when combined with altitude, wind, moisture and physical exhaustion. Exposure to cold, especially in the unconscious, the elderly, young children and the injured.
SAFETY CHECKLIST AND PLANNING
There are some basic rules (explained and set out more fully throughout this website) when going to the alpine region, even on the shortest trip.
ENVIRONMENTAL CARE
In an endeavour to protect the resort areas, the resorts undertake feral animal control and weed control to protect our native fauna and flora.
EQUIPMENT
There are special equipment requirements for each of the different activities; alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, ski touring and snowboarding. Please refer to the relevant section of this website or contact your local ski retailer for further information on equipment.
CHILDREN: LEARNING AND EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS
Warm, protective clothing should always be worn by children. The use of a helmet is recommended and may be mandatory at some resorts to take lessons. The advice regarding layers and materials referred to earlier apply even more so to children.
FOOD
Food provides energy for movement and for maintaining your body temperature. The risk of injury or exhaustion can be reduced by having good meals, maintaining fluid intake and stopping to rest when tired.
WINDSCREENS
Clear all glass and mirrors of ice before attempting to drive. Carry an ice-scraper to clear the bulk of the snow.
PARKING
Park only where directed. If you do not, you run the risk of another vehicle or snow clearing vehicle running into your car.
CHAIN FITTING
Fit chains at bays where you see the ‘Fit Chains Here’ sign. Always fit chains to driving wheels only. When required, four wheel drive vehicles should fit chains to front wheels.
FUEL
Before you drive up the mountain, ensure that your fuel tank is topped up as you may experience lengthy delays in bad weather when you need to keep your motor running.
BEFORE LEAVING HOME
Snowfield conditions may highlight any existing minor faults, particularly in the electrical system so it is essential to thoroughly check your vehicle before leaving home.