Skilifts – Slopes

Safer ski

The Speikboden does not generally have any avalanches. The slopes are groomed with great care each night by the snow cats. The modern lifts and cableways are among the safest in the world. Safety on the slopes usually depends on the skiers and their behaviour when coming downhill. Carelessness and high speed, as well as overestimation of their own capabilities are the most common causes of accidents.

Important numbers

The 12 FIS safety rules for skier

1. Every skier and snowboarder has to behave in such a manner so as to not endanger others.
2. Every skier and snowboarder has to adapt his or her speed and behaviour according to capabilities as well as slope, weather, snow and traffic conditions.
3. Skiers or snowboarders coming from behind have to choose their direction in a way not to endanger the skier in front of them.
4. It is possible to overtake on both sides, right or left, but always at a distance that allows the overtaken skier to do their turns. Additionally, in Italy the principle applies that those coming from the right side have the right of way.
5. After a break or at the crossing of slopes, everybody has to make sure, that uphill and downhill the slope is clear to make a start without creating danger to other people or themselves.
6. Every skier or snowboarder must not stop at narrow passages or places with reduced visibility or in the event of falling has to leave the slopes as quickly as possible.
7. To get back uphill, the skier or snowboarder must stay on the outer edge of the downhill slope; in case of reduced visibility, however, the outer edge has to remain free. This rule also applies to the skier walking down on foot; in Italy it is forbidden to walk on the slopes with the exception of emergencies.
8. Every skier or snowboarder must adhere to the signs on the slopes (e.g. signs with directions, clearly marked slope boundaries).
9. Everybody who witnesses or is involved in an accident has to provide assistance and raise alarm. If required by the emergency services the person has to remain at their disposal.
10. On request of the police patrolling the slopes, every skier is obliged to provide his personal details on a personal identification document, whenever they are involved in an accident; be they directly involved or as a witness.
11. It is good practice not to turn on the very edge of the slopes but always to leave sufficient space in order to allow overtaking.
12. It is important to pay attention to the directions of skiers according to the type of board used (snowboard, telemark, fun carving etc.), additionally, in Italy children up to 14 years must wear a helmet.