For all mountain users, the International Ski Federation (FIS) has 10 rules for skiers and snowboarders to help everyone stay safe on the mountain. Think of it as the ski version of the highway code that must be followed at all times in all ski resorts.
2. CONTROL YOUR SPEED - Adapt the manner and speed of your skiing to your ability and to the general conditions on the mountain including the traffic on the slopes.
3. CHOOSE YOUR ROUTE - A skier or snowboarder from behind must choose their route so they do not endanger those in ahead - leave enough space.
4. OVERTAKING - You can overtake above or below and to the left and right, but you must leave plenty of space when overtaking a skier/snowboarder.
5. ENTERING AND STARTING OFF- Always look in every direction before entering a run, starting after stopping or moving upwards on the pistes.
6. STOPPING ON THE PISTE - Stop only at the edge of the piste or where you can be seen easily. After a fall, a skier or snowboarder must move clear of the piste as soon as they can.
7. CLIMBING - Always keep to the side of the piste.
8. RESPECT SIGNS - Obey all signs and markings - they are provided for your safety.
9. ASSISTANCE - In case of accidents, provide help or alert the rescue services.
10. IDENTIFICATION - All those involved in an accident, including witnesses whether a responsible party or not, should exchange names and addresses.
Other tips for staying safe on the mountains:
- Make sure your bindings are properly adjusted by a trained professional in a ski shop
- Always wear a helmet, no beanies! Many insurance policies now state you must wear a helmet whilst taking part in winter sports
- Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for collisions
- Bring or wear more layers than you need, you can take off layers but you can't add when you don't have any!
- Only ski off-piste with a qualified guide - read more about staying safe off-piste here