Do you know the Skiway code?

The International Ski Federation (FIS) produces a set of guidelines to help keep you and other skiers/snowboarders safe on the slopes.

It’s important to understand that these ‘common sense guidelines’ are regularly used for insurance and legal purposes, where an accident has occurred on the slopes, so we highly recommend reading and adopting them.

Most of the guidelines are common sense and things you probably already adopt in your skiing. There are however a few rules of the slope which we regularly see people ignore, so we’ve highlighted those in RED below.

Rules for the Conduct of Skiers and Snowboarders

1. RESPECT for others

Be aware of all other skiers/snowboarders on the slopes around you and do not endanger them.

2. CONTROL of speed

Only ski/snowboard within the limits of your ability (taking conditions, terrain, weather and volume of other slope users into account) and be sure you can always stop safely.

3. Choice of ROUTE

Carefully choose your route in such a way that you don’t endanger other skiers/snowboarders.

4. OVERTAKING

Leave plenty of space when overtaking other slope users in case they make any voluntary or involuntary movement. Remember, the skier/snowboarder in front of you (usually downhill) has right of way.

5. STARTING, entering or climbing a slope

When entering a slope, starting again after stopping, or moving upwards, you must LOOK (up and down) the slope to avoid other skiers/snowboarders.

6. Stopping on the slope

Always try and stop at the side of the piste and away from narrow tracks or slopes. Stop where you can be clearly seen and avoid stopping under jumps/bumps or after sharp corners. After a fall, move as quickly as possible to the side. At the tops of ski lifts, move away to keep the exit zone clear for other people.

7. Climbing and descending on foot

If you need to climb or descend on foot, make sure you keep to the side of the slope.

8. Respect for signs and markings

Don’t ignore the signs, markers or nets as they’re put there to keep you safe.

9. Assistance

At an accident you are duty bound to assist, whilst not endangering yourself or other slope users. 

10. Identification

Whether you are a responsible party or not, you must exchange names and addresses following an accident and be prepared to act as a witness.

All LGS instructors use these guidelines and we can help you to understand and apply them.

Children taking part in our Junior Freeriders courses are asked to learn the rules and complete a test before they’re presented with a ski award.

Please use these 10 simple rules this winter and make sure you stay safe!