What to wear
In the mountains climate changes are usually abrupt. The essential thing is to wear warm underwear and then a jacket, pants and waterproof over-pants. You also need a hat to protect the ears and gloves and wool stockings. The sun of the mountain is a temptation to tanning, but do not forget a good protective cream and appropriate sunglasses because the consequences can be undesirable.
Eating, drinking and resting
It is essential to have an adequate physical preparation and also to eat well and drink plenty of fluids in moments of rest. Periodic rest is essential to avoid an excessive drop in body temperature below normal levels. Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages because they accelerate the loss of body heat.
The equipment
Skis, boots and bindings must be in perfect condition. The shoes have to fit perfectly in the bindings, which, on the other hand, it is convenient that they are all of the same brand and type. It is also good to control that you can free yourself from the heel and toe attachments with brief movements of the boot.
Help on the hill
If you suffer an accident, remember that the National Park Patrols are trained to guide and assist you. Respect your indications.
THE DECALOGUE OF THE GOOD SKIER
Do not endanger or cause harm to another skier.
Control the speed according to your own personal aptitude and experience and the weather and track conditions.
When descending, pay attention that your route does not endanger the skiers ahead. The skier who goes “to the mountain” has the dominant position and must choose a direction that avoids the skiers “to valley”.
To advance the only rule is to foresee the displacements of the skier who is going to be overtaken, it can be done by right or by left but not crossing his path.
Be careful when entering the track or when crossing the training fields.
Do not stop if it is not absolutely necessary.
In case of a fall, clear the track as soon as possible.
To climb or descend on foot, you must do it along the sides of the track and only with good visibility.
Obey the signs and markings of the tracks, like the indications of the patrolman.
Always assist the injured skier, alerting emergency services and first aid. Do not take initiatives if you are not well trained.
Identify yourself to the patrolman if you are a witness, responsible or not, of an accident.
RULES FOR SNOWBOARDISTS
In addition to the decalogue valid for all skiers, snowboarders have some rules of that sport.
Beware of changes of direction. It is necessary to control the space on both sides since the vision is limited by the lateral position of the board, and also the snowboard allows to make much more abrupt changes, which may not be foreseen by the other skiers. Use the safety strap . This prevents, in case of fall, the loss of the table, which would put at risk those around. Also, when leaving the board you should do it supported by the fixings and not stop in the snow. Respect others. The board allows you to do many tricks, most of the times dangerous, so you have to do them in suitable places and with extreme care.
