Winter sports terms explained

Knowing winter sports terms makes it easier to understand signs at lifts, on slopes and at rescue stations. The most important decisions are made in the first few minutes: check your own safety, pinpoint your location as accurately as possible, contact help clearly and warn other winter sports enthusiasts. Stay in a safe place and follow the instructions of the local ski patrol. Information about winter sports can help you plan your day.

When in doubt, follow a clear sequence. Make the area safe, check whether people are responsive and get help. Do not present assumptions as a diagnosis. Professional assistance is especially important in cases of unconsciousness, severe pain, breathing problems or a possible head or spinal injury. Move injured people only if there is immediate danger.

Marked routes, highly visible clothing and a charged phone make communication easier, but do not guarantee reception. A short note with your accommodation and contact details can make arrangements after an accident easier. For equipment and conduct, see ski and snowboard equipment and slope safety.

If possible, make a note of the time, place and people involved. In the event of a collision, exchange contact details. The official FIS Rules for skiers and snowboarders are the relevant reference for conduct, providing assistance and consideration for others. Local rescue and resort operating instructions take precedence.

• Check emergency numbers and agree on a meeting point before setting off.
• Read the piste map and the latest notices.
• Only ski with suitable, inspected equipment.
• Take a break if the weather changes, you feel tired or you are injured.
• In an emergency, give your location, slope, lift and situation.

What does “groomed slope” mean?

The snow has been prepared using piste-grooming machines. Conditions can change depending on the weather and how much the slope is used.

What is a base station?

This is usually where a lift or cable car journey begins; the top station is at the upper end of the ride.

What does “closed” mean?

The marked area must not be used. Reasons may include construction work, rescue operations or a lack of safety measures.

Plan your day with enough time for getting your bearings, taking breaks and returning safely. Conditions change with temperature, wind, fresh snow, shade and the number of people on the slope. Your ability can also be affected by fatigue or cold. Choosing an easier option in good time is a sensible decision and avoids having to push yourself into a risky situation. With children and beginners, an experienced person should explain the route and adjust the pace.

Before setting off, check that your clothing, boots, helmet and goggles fit comfortably. Freedom of movement and clear vision matter more than a sporty look. After a fall or collision, the group should first move to a protected spot and watch out for traffic. Follow the resort’s local instructions on getting help, consideration for others and using marked areas.

Keep an eye on lift opening hours, the last ride and the route back down to the valley, but do not leave yourself too little time. A less challenging return route may be the better choice if your concentration is waning. Agree on meeting points and an alternative in case a section is closed or visibility is poor. A charged phone, water and an extra warm layer are useful on longer days. If in doubt, ask the local ski or rescue station.

Give others plenty of space and allow for the fact that their movements may not always be predictable. Clear, calm decisions are safer than sudden changes of direction. Read the resort’s notices and leave an area if you cannot see what lies ahead. After a break, check again that the route and your level of concentration are still suitable. This helps keep winter sports manageable and enjoyable, even as conditions change.