National Safety Awareness Week, January 17 - 23.

Yesterday was one of those days that you wished would never end. The sun was shining brightly (even though the forecast called for a cloudy day), the temperatures were relatively mild and the snow was simply fabulous. My short trip up the mountain for a quick picture for the daily photo turned into several runs…I just couldn’t make myself go back to the confines of the office and a desk. I stopped frequently on the edge of Blue Ox to take a few shots and then again towards the bottom of the mountain where several trails empty into the base area. Standing and watching skiers and riders funnel out of 5 different runs into the large open expanse in front of the Governor Adams lodge, the image of a flock of birds came to mind. Did you ever see a bird run into another while in flight? Me neither. Here we had people out for a good time coming to a large merge and no one “flew into anyone else.” “Why not?”, I wondered. Could it be that all these folks were practicing proper skiing and riding etiquette and safety, some without even realizing it? I think yes. Skiing and riding safety is in a large part common sense and plain old fashioned courtesy. Still, there are established guidelines that all of us should review from time to time.. a little refresher can only help and perhaps prevent us from making a careless mistake. So, read on…..

Your Responsibility Code

Skiing can be enjoyed in many ways. At ski areas you may see people using alpine, snowboard, telemark, cross country and other specialized ski equipment, such as that used by disabled or other skiers. Regardless of how you decide to enjoy the slopes, always show courtesy to others and be aware that there are elements of risk in skiing that common sense and personal awareness can help reduce. Observe the code listed below and share with other skiers the responsibility for a great skiing experience.
• Prior to using any lift, you must have the knowledge and ability to load, ride and unload safely.
• Always stay in control, and be able to stop or avoid other people or objects.
• People ahead of you have the right of way. It is your responsibility to avoid them.
• You must not stop where you obstruct a trail, or are not visible from above.
• Whenever starting downhill or merging into a trail, look uphill and yield to others.
• Always use devices to help prevent runaway equipment.
• Observe all posted signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.

KNOW THE CODE. IT'S YOUR RESPONSIBILITY.

This is a partial list. Be safety conscious.

Officially endorsed by: NATIONAL SKI AREAS ASSOCIATION.