Many people view skiing as the most supreme winter sport, since few games can meet the speed, dexterity, elation and romp of skiing. Not many other games combine awesome views with the opportunity to go down a mountain at over 40 miles per hour.
Yet, like most sports out there, skiing can be hazardous, particularly if the necessary precautions are overlooked. The high speed of skiing along with the bumpy landscape mean this is an activity that needs to be paid attention to for accident avoidance.
Here are tips for easily staying safe when skiing.
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Pack the Right Equipment
Before you adventure out to the slopes, it’s vital to have the correct equipment and know how to operate it.
Below is a list of what to carry every time you go up the mountain:
- Helmet
Similar to other vigorous sports, wearing a helmet is critical when it comes to averting lethal injuries in skiing. Use a well-fitting helmet and fasten the chin strap to keep it in a safe position. It’s essential to get a helmet that is specially designed for skiing, because you’ll require room for goggles and ventilation
- Skis
Generally, the bigger the ski, the quicker it goes and the more difficult it is to master. See that you purchase or lease skis that fit your size and skiing capacity, and take them to a ski shop for professional fitting and tuning
- Bindings
Likewise, you should have your bindings adjusted by an expert at a ski shop. The bindings should be able to release in case of a fall to forestall leg injury . However, bindings that discharge too easily can lead to accidental falls
- Boots
Make a point to get comfortable and warm boots that fit well to gain the best power over your skis. They should be buckled up cozily at all times to effectively support your feet and lower legs
- Poles
They should be the correct length and have spiral straps that circumvent your wrists
- Protective Eyewear
The sun’s beams are more intense at high altitudes than at sea level. And, when those rays ricochet off the glimmering snow, they can be a genuine danger to your eyes. Shades are the most ideal approach to shielding your eyes from the sun’s beams. In addition to the sunglasses, bring a couple of goggles that are the correct size to use when it gets cold or starts to snow. The goggles do a better job at shielding your eyes from hazards you pass along the way, like tree branches
- Gloves
Ski gloves ought to permit free finger movement when attempting to grasp the poles, and ultimately keep your fingers warm.
For added protection against the cold, it’s a smart thought to wear mittens, as they are usually warmer than gloves. You should also pack walkie-talkies as they are one of the best ways to communicate while on the slopes . They allow you to keep in touch with loved ones in case you go off to a different trail, or lose your way.
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Have Enough Warm Clothes
It’s no fun skiing on a cold day if you lack warm clothes. Similarly, having too many garments on a hot day can make you sweat, and leave you feeling cold when the sun goes into hiding. The most ideal approach to this problem is to dress in layers . With layers, you can remove some or put on more based on the weather conditions.
Here’s a list of the kind of garments you should wear for skiing to evade hypothermia and frostbite:
- Thermal underwear
- Thermal socks
- Woolen fleeces or sweaters
- Water-proof and windproof ski pants
- Jackets with many pockets to keep your gear
- Neck gaiter
- Ski hat
- Sunscreen and lip balm to protect your skin against the sun’s rays
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Pack Food and Water
Skiing is an extremely demanding activity. It can cause exhaustion and dehydration very easily, especially at higher elevations. Therefore, it’s a smart thought to carry water with you every time you ski, and a quick snack to give you energy when you feel drained.
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Be in Good Shape Before You Ski
One of the best approaches to preventing injuries is to ensure that you’re fit as a fiddle before you ski. Sturdier muscles will help you in maintaining control and make the sporting activity more enjoyable.
If you plan on visiting the slopes in the cold season, be sure to exercise regularly during the fall and summer. You will be happy you did. If you’re new to skiing, you ought to sign up for lessons from a trained instructor . Ensure that your ski instructor has a certification from the Professional Ski Instructors of America.
If you’re in good shape, and have the correct gear and attire, you’re all set for skiing. But as you go skiing, always remember to know your limits and follow the rules. Also, it’s a good idea to ski with a friend for added safety and practice skier etiquette.
