The National Ski Areas Association (NSAA), in conjunction with resorts around the country, is celebrating the 10Th Anniversary of the annual National Safety Awareness Week at 100's of Ski Resorts. Jan. 17-23, 2009. Ski areas use the week to promote slope safety to ski area guests and employees in a variety of creative ways, many which involve Ski Patrollers.

Know The Code

Many skiers may thing they know the Skier Responsibility Code, but it is always a good idea to review the code for yourself and friends and family. The Skiers Safety Code is no joke. It may seem simple, but it essential all skiers and riders pay attention and abide by the code. Here's the top 7 things skiers need to be aware of in the code at most Ski Resorts.

1. Always stay in control and be able to stop or avoid other people or objects. This is so important. When the trails get crowded on weekends and holidays other skiers can pop up anywhere.Be aware of your surroundings and your ability. If you hit a tree or another person you are not only wrecking your day or season, but many others too
2. People ahead of you have the right of way. It is your responsibility to avoid them. Almost the same as above, but one clear difference. If you are on top of the trail from another skier you must be able to avoid them or stop if the other skier suddenly decides to turn downhill or into you. Even knowing other skiers should look uphill as per code # 4. Most never do unfortunately.
3. You must not stop where you obstruct a trail or are not visible from above. If you stop below a steep or a drop off you stand a huge chance of being hit by another skier. Skiers and snowboarders can be traveling upwards of 25 MPH and more. Imagine being hit by a car traveling 25 MPH.
4. Whenever starting downhill or merging into a trail, look uphill and yield to others. This part of the code would avoid 1000's of rides down the hill in a red sled. Not to mention it bugs me to no extent. Please look before you leap. This is one part of that should be drilled into every one's head and remind everyone you can.
5. Always use devices to help prevent run away equipment. Pretty self explanatory. Know One wants to lose a ski and have to hike down, into the woods or worse impale another skier.
6. Observe all posted signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas. Don't be a dope stay in the ropes and ski area boundaries. Same States will fine you or even put you in jail for ducking ropes, not to mention its dangerous. If you get hurt you not be found for hours, days or ever.
7. Prior to using any lift, you must have the knowledge and ability to load, ride, and unload safely. With the advent of high speed lifts some people forget when they get to a fixed chair left. Pay attention as soon as you approach a lift to see what kind it is. If you are loading onto a fixed chair prepare to move fast when its time to board. Many young skiers and snowboarding learned on high speed lifts and have grown use to the lift slowing down.

Please review The Skiers Responsibility Code with your family and stay safe. Also remember that you are responsible for other skiers and riders on the trail with you.

Please always wear a Ski Helmet and go with the flow