Skiing and snowboarding. It’s not just a sport, it’s a culture. These winter sports have a way of doing things, their own set of do’s and dont’s, their own language… a code you might say. Everyone, at some point, has to learn the ins and outs of this lifestyle/sport. Whether it is knowing what “pizza,” “cork,” “skier’s left” means or knowing that you always look uphill when merging onto a trail. Knowing the terms and courtesies, will help you progress and enjoy the sports, like you have been doing them your whole life.
Nobody wants to be the that guy, that guy that cuts off the skiers or looks totally unsafe chasing their board down the mountain.
The Responsibility Code
Part of this culture is “The Code.” Knowing the Responsibility Code will help you stay safe, avoid collisions and shows respect to the people you are sharing the mountain with.
The Responsibility Code was developed by the National Ski Areas Association as a set of easy-to-remember guidelines to help keep everyone safe on the slopes. It applies to both skiers and snowboarders.
The seven points are:
- Always stay in control, and be able to stop or avoid other people or objects.
- People ahead of you have the right of way. It is your responsibility to avoid them.
- You must not stop where you obstruct a trail, or are not visible from above.
- Whenever starting downhill or merging into a trail, look uphill and yield to others.
- Always use devices to help prevent runaway equipment.
- Observe all posted signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
- Prior to using any lift, you must have the knowledge and ability to load, ride and unload safely.
During January, Safety Month, look for Responsibility Code stickers, signs and cards around Angel Fire Resort.
Congratulations to these Responsibility Code Quiz Winners:
- Nick John
- Rick Boudreau
- Susan Leach
Try your knowledge of the quiz for a chance to win a free lift ticket just like these winners!
