The 10 rules of the slopes: sharing the piste safely

Skiing is a pleasure first. But during the school holidays, when the pistes fill up, every bit of behaviour counts so that everybody’s day goes well. Our instructors remind you of the ten FIS rules — the ones you learn in your first lesson and sometimes forget with habit.

Before you even click in

• In the lift queue, move forward in order, skis together, no pushing in.
• Keep your poles in hand and your skis parallel so you don’t scratch your neighbour’s.
• Get your pass out before the gate: the simplest way not to hold anyone up.

The 10 rules, one by one

1. Respect others

Every skier must behave in a way that does not endanger or harm others. Everything else follows from this rule.

2. Control your speed

Adapt your speed to your ability, the terrain, the snow, the weather and how busy it is. The black run isn’t dangerous — the skier who has lost control of their line is.

3. Choose your line

The uphill skier can see what’s below: it is up to them to choose a line that does not get in the way of those beneath.

4. Overtake safely

You may overtake above or below, left or right, but always wide enough to leave the skier you’re passing room for their turns.

5. Entering and crossing

Before joining a piste or setting off after a stop, look uphill and downhill to check you can do so safely.

6. Stop in the right place

Avoid stopping in narrow spots or where you can’t be seen. After a fall, clear the piste as quickly as you can.

7. Walk on the edge

Anyone climbing or descending on foot keeps to the side of the piste.

8. Read the signs

Respect the markers and signs: closed runs, crossings, slow zones, avalanche risk.

9. Give assistance

In the event of an accident, everybody must help. Secure the area by planting crossed skis uphill, then alert the piste patrol or call 112.

10. Identify yourself

Witness or involved in an accident, give your details to the rescue services.

A word from the instructor

These rules aren’t there to spoil the fun but to guarantee it. Unsure about a situation? Ask your OxySki instructor during the lesson — they’ll show you on the snow.

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