Another Snow and Ice Season: Essential Safety Knowledge for Winter Sports

As winter sports gain popularity, enthusiasm for these activities continues to soar. However, while chasing this winter-limited romance, it’s crucial not to overlook the risks involved. Before you head out, keep these safety tips in mind:

01

Skiing Safety Guidelines

With ski resorts opening one after another, the new snow season is in full swing. Skiing is a high-risk sport, making it vital to follow the rules and take proper precautions.

Preparation and Equipment

• Select certified venues:
  Choose ski resorts with proper credentials and complete facilities. Absolutely avoid unmarked or backcountry areas.

• Wear suitable gear:
  Rent or purchase well-fitted skis, ski boots, and a helmet. A helmet is essential lifesaving equipment and must be worn.
  Wrist guards, knee pads, and hip protectors (especially for snowboard beginners) are highly recommended to significantly reduce the risk of fractures and sprains.
  Wear waterproof, breathable, and warm ski clothing, along with ski gloves and goggles. Avoid jeans or ordinary cotton jackets.

On the Slopes

• Choose appropriate slopes:
  Never attempt advanced runs beyond your skill level. Start on beginner slopes and progress gradually.

• Follow slope “traffic rules”:
  Yield to those below: Always give way to skiers and snowboarders downhill from you.
  Control your speed: Adjust your speed according to your ability and snow conditions.
  Stop safely: Do not stop in the middle of a run, in narrow sections, or in blind spots. If you need to stop, choose a visible spot near the edge.
  Keep a safe distance: Maintain distance from other people, trees, and protective netting.

• Learn how to fall:
  Snowboarders: Avoid bracing falls with your hands, as this can easily cause wrist or arm fractures.

• If falling backward, cross your arms over your chest, hunch your back, tuck your chin, and lift your feet to brake. Roll into a ball and land on your back.

• If falling forward, avoid landing directly on your wrists or knees. Lower your center of gravity quickly, use your forearms to contact the snow, and slide forward with the momentum.
  Skiers: Discard your poles immediately when falling to avoid impalement.

• Avoid leaning too far forward or backward. Quickly lower your center of gravity, cross your arms over your chest or hold them close, and fall to either side.

• After falling, do not remain on the slope for too long. Get up and move away quickly to avoid collisions.

02

Ice Skating Safety Guidelines

Ice skating is a beloved winter activity, but it carries inherent risks and requires equal caution.

Preparation and Equipment

• Venue selection:
  Absolutely avoid skating on unsupervised, natural ice surfaces such as rivers, lakes, or ponds with uncertain freezing conditions! Uneven ice thickness can lead to cracking and submersion, posing extreme danger. Choose regulated, supervised outdoor or indoor commercial rinks.

• Gear and preparation:
  Rent or wear well-fitted ice skates, laced tightly to provide adequate ankle support.
  Beginners are strongly advised to wear helmets, knee pads, elbow pads, and wrist guards.
  Dress in warm, flexible clothing and wear gloves (for both warmth and hand protection in case of falls).

On the Ice

• Learn to fall correctly:
  When losing balance, lower your center of gravity, fall sideways, and avoid bracing with your wrists (to prevent fractures). Slide out with the momentum and quickly check your surroundings before moving to the edge or getting up.

• Stay alert:
  Be aware of other skaters, especially those skating backward or at high speeds. Avoid lingering or chatting in the center of the rink.