Seven Tips to Stay Safe on and Off the Slopes

Don’t injure yourself early in the season and miss out on winter fun. Instead, follow some of these simple tips to stay safe:

1. Stretch it out

   Before you hit the mountain, stretch each muscle group with three sets of 30-second holds. Concentrate on hamstrings, quadriceps, and calves. Stand in a doorway and clasp each side of the door frame, then slowly step through the door until you feel the stretch in your chest and arms.

2. Pace yourself

   To ensure you have a fun, safe day on the slopes, know your skill level. People get injured when they go outside their comfort zone. Ski-related injures to the wrist, elbow, shoulder, and head are seen most often. You can prevent these injuries by wearing a helmet and wrist guards.

3. Know when to rest 

   Most injuries peak at 1pm or 2pm when people are tired and their technique falters. Take a few post-lunch turns on easier trails before returning to challenging runs. 

4. Stay hydrated

   Although it’s cold outside, make sure you drink enough water. You dehydrate faster at higher altitudes, which can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, and headaches.