10 safety rules for the slopes

Checking my equipment

All skiers are advised to wear a helmet for their own safety, and to check that their bindings are properly adjusted – ask a professional for help.

Weather conditions

Users should be aware of the day’s weather, snow conditions and avalanche risk.

Respect for others

Slope users must behave in such a way that their actions or equipment do not endanger or injure others.

Speed and behavior control

All slope users must adjust their speed and behavior according to their ability, the terrain, the weather and snow conditions, and the traffic on the slopes.

Choice of trajectory by the person upstream

The person upstream is in a position to choose a trajectory, and must make this choice in such a way as to preserve the safety of anyone downstream. He must not cut off other skiers’ trajectories.

Overtaking

Overtaking can be upstream or downstream, to the right or to the left, but must always be wide enough to prevent the skier being overtaken from moving.

When crossing tracks

After stopping or at an intersection, all users must check upstream and downstream to ensure that they can continue without endangering themselves or others. In addition, all users must avoid stopping in the middle of a runway, in a narrow passage or without visibility.

Respecting information, signs and markings

Skiers must heed information on weather, slope and snow conditions. He or she must respect all signs and markings, as well as the rules governing the use of ski lifts.

Rescue assistance

Anyone who witnesses an accident must call for help and render assistance wherever possible.

Flaine: +33(0)4 50 90 80 58
Les Carroz: +33(0)4 50 90 00 42
Morillon, Samoens, Sixt: +33(0)4 50 34 42 05

Otherwise dial 112.

Identification

Any skier who is a witness or party to an accident, whether responsible or not, is obliged to identify himself or herself.

Need advice on safe ski touring and freeride skiing?

See our ski touring page or our freeride skiing page.