HEADS UP on the Slopes!

In an effort to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all mountain sports participants in Thunder Bay, local ski hills and the Thunder Bay District Health Unit  encourage skiers and snowboarders to keep their HEADS UP when on the slopes.

Regardless of how you decide to enjoy the slopes, always show courtesy to others and be aware that there are elements of risk that common sense and personal awareness can help reduce.  Observe the Responsibility Code and share with others, the responsibility for a great skiing or snowboarding experience.

Your Responsibility Code

1. Always stay in control. You must be able to stop or avoid other people or objects.
2. People ahead of you have the right of way. It is your responsibility to avoid them.
3. Do not stop where you obstruct a trail or are not visible from above.
4. Before starting downhill or merging onto a trail, look up hill and yield to others.
5. If involved in or witnessing a collision, stay at the site and identify yourself to ski patrol.
6. Use proper devices to prevent runaway equipment.
7. Observe and obey all posted signs and warnings.
8. Keep off closed areas and trails.
9. Stay off lifts and trails if impaired with drugs or alcohol.
10. Ask lift attendant for assistance if you are unsure how to safely load, unload, and ride the lift.

KNOW THE CODE. IT’S YOUR RESPONSIBILITY.

Everyone has a role to play when it comes to reducing the chance for injury on the slopes

Rookies:  HEADS UP — Know your Limits.

If you’ve recently starting skiing or snowboarding, you are at risk for injury as you learn the skills required for your sport.   As more experienced skiers or snowboarders show their stuff on the hill, you may want to try tricks and jumps before you’re ready.  To ensure your first experiences on the hill are good ones, keep your HEADS Up—know your limits.

Veterans:  HEADS UP — Set the Example.

So you’ve been skiing, snowboarding or perhaps both for years now.  You may have become numb to all the safety messages out there.  Remember that because you can ride or ski at a higher skill level, it is even more important that you respect those less experienced around you. Honour your Responsibility Code.  Keep your HEADS UP—Set the example.