Do you know the FIS Safety Code?

Here's a quick reminder of the FIS Safety Code for staying safe on the ski slopes this winter.

The International Ski Federation (FIS) produces a set of safety rules to help keep you and other slope users safe.

It’s important to understand that these FIS Safety Rules are regularly used for insurance and legal purposes where an accident has occurred on the slopes, so we highly recommend reading and understanding them.

We feel so strongly about safety on the slopes that we've helped to make the following Piste X Code video:

As ski instructors in Les Gets, we regularly see skiers and snowboarders skiing beyond their means - out of control and unable to stop quickly or avoid someone at short notice. Us and our pupils are commonly 'buzzed' by people not leaving enough space when passing. We see people joining slopes, or setting off, without looking uphill. Congregating and stopping in the middle of slopes and the disregard of 'slow down' signs is commonplace.

In our world of increased personal safety (i.e. wearing helmets, back protectors etc.) please don't fall into the trap of feeling 'invincible' to the detriment of the safety of other slope users!

FIS Safety Rules

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.