Snowboarding Safely...

Snowboarding Safety

HERE ARE SOME SAFETY TIPS FOR SNOWBOARDING:

• Always Practice Winter Safety. 

• KNOW THE CODE - Click to view and practice it.

• Ensure that children wear a helmet - Parents should too.  See Helmet Safety

• Wrist guards can help prevent serious wrist injuries from falls.

• Consider taking lessons or having children participate in lessons to learn the proper way to snowboard and use the lifts. 

• Maintain control.

• Keep a trail map with you and know where you are.

• Warm up slowly and prepare yourself for snowboarding, both mentally and physically.  Begin each run slowly until you are familiar with it.

• If a slope is beyond your ability or conditions become unsafe, take off your snowboard and side step down the hill.

• Stop snowboarding before you become too tired.

• Be aware of the snow conditions and avalanche warnings.

• Make sure the equipment is well maintained and appropriate for the age and ability of the user.

• Never Snowboard alone.

• If you are involved in or witness a collision or accident you must remain at the scene and identify yourself to the Ski Patrol.

• When using Ski lifts, learn how to get on and off safely.  Never push to get on.  Consider asking the attendant to reduce the speed of the lift if getting on and off with little children.  Always lower the bar on chair lifts.

• Avoid scarves, loose clothing and tie up long hair that can get caught in ski lifts.

• HAVE FUN!!!

Beginner snowboarders might want to consider renting equipment the first time to ensure that it is something they enjoy.  Lessons will teach proper techniques, safety and the all important - HOW TO FALL AND GET UP AGAIN.   

Some other tips include:

1. Be aware of concerns for Frost bite and Hypothermia see  Winter Safety Tips for more information.

2. Wrist Guards can help reduce the incidents of sprained wrists - a common injury among snowboarders.

3. Never let children Snowboard alone - always with a buddy and a helmet is must.

4. KNOW THE CODE and practice it.

5. Ensure equipment is in good condition.

6. See other skiing tips for more information