Safety, Rules & Conduct on the Slopes

• Adjust your speed and line to visibility, terrain, traffic and ability.
• If you are coming from behind, choose a line that does not take others by surprise.
• Before joining or setting off on a slope, look uphill and downhill.
• Stop in visible areas at the sides; keep narrow sections clear.
• If there is an accident, get help without putting yourself in danger.

Conditions on a slope are constantly changing. A child may suddenly change direction, a beginner may fall, or a group may slow down before a junction. So don’t focus only on the tips of your skis. Reading the space ahead and reducing your speed early gives you more time to react. A defensive skiing style is especially sensible in fog, snowfall, glare and on icy patches.

Being considerate also means not judging other people’s abilities or crowding them. When overtaking, leave plenty of space to the side and in front. The person coming from uphill is responsible for choosing a safe line. The basic slope rules cover common situations such as overtaking, crossing and stopping.

Before setting off from a standstill, a side run or the edge of the slope, look uphill and downhill. Only then should you choose a clear line. At junctions, don’t merge blindly into traffic. Stop at the edge in a place that is clearly visible from above. Stopping behind a crest, in a narrow section or just before a bend creates unnecessary risk.

If someone falls, clear the area as quickly as possible, provided you can do so without endangering yourself. Don’t leave skis or a snowboard carelessly across the slope. In a group, one person should watch the area and warn approaching skiers. In a serious incident, slope rescue and ski patrol can arrange professional assistance.

Signs and closures must be obeyed, even if the slope looks technically skiable. Possible reasons include grooming, avalanche work, poor visibility, ice, wind or a lack of rescue access. Hazards also differ off-piste: marked, secured runs and open terrain should not be treated the same way. If you feel unsure, choose an open, easy-to-see run.

In its safety information, the German Association of Cable Cars and Mountain Railways explains the operational framework of ski areas. For any given day on the slopes, the guidance of the local operator and staff takes precedence. Alcohol, exhaustion and cold can impair your reactions. Taking a break, wearing warm clothing and drinking enough fluids are also part of a safe day.

First, make sure you are in a safe position. Then make the accident site clearly visible and warn oncoming traffic. Give rescue teams as much precise information as possible: the ski area, run name or number, nearby lift and any distinctive landmarks. In an emergency, call the appropriate emergency number. Never enter a closed area or put yourself at risk of an avalanche or fall in order to help.

How fast may I ski? At a speed that lets you brake and avoid obstacles under control at all times. No single speed is right for every slope and visibility condition.

Who needs to take care when overtaking? The person coming from behind must keep their distance and must not surprise the person ahead.

Where is it safer to stop? At the clearly visible edge of the slope—never behind a crest, in a narrow section or at a junction with poor visibility.

What should I do if a run is closed? Respect the closure until the run is officially reopened. Going around a closure on your own puts guests and staff at risk.

What should I do after an accident? Check that you are safe, secure the area, warn others and contact professional help, giving the most precise location details possible.