If there’s one thing we love to do as a family, it is travel! Of course, it comes with the day job for both of us, but we also grew up travelling. Steph spent a ton of time on the slopes of The Alps when growing up, as well as trips to Aviemore in Scotland and various other ski resorts. For Alex? Well, he skied during school trips, so he didn’t have the same level of experience that Steph had growing up, who has stories from being on black runs with her gran and how her first time on one in the Portes Du Soleil area whilst on holiday in Champéry really cemented the importance of piste safety!
Fast forward to now, and we’re looking to get back out on the slopes next season with Alice in tow! For us, that’s a bit more complicated as Steph now sit-skis and needs to get a new one, whilst from a safety point of view, most people don’t know the rules of the pistes, which is worrying when Steph herself has seen just how dangerous the slopes can be when you don’t keep safe, having had accidents on the slopes herself!
That’s where Piste X Code comes in! Piste X Code was created by 2 mums after a tragic accident on the piste last year after realising that many skiers and snowboarders need to be taught the simple rules of the piste, whether that be in lessons or when researching if self-taught.
The code is simple:
- Ski/Snowboard within your ability, controlling your speed at all times and doing all you can to avoid other mountain users.
- Consider your choice of path! The downhill skier or snowboarder always has the right of way, so it’s your responsibility to avoid them. Always leave space when passing!
- Think about where you’ll stop! Always stop at the side of the piste, never in the middle, and never beneath the brow of a hill!
- Be aware of your surroundings! Look up and down the slope before you begin or re-join the piste.
- Be a good example for children by teaching them the importance of piste safety and the importance of Piste X Code.
- Respect piste signs and markings! If a piste is closed, it’s for your safety. Watch for signs advising you to slow down.
- Your role if there’s an accident: You are duty-bound to assist! Cross your skis upright in the snow above the incident and call 112 if in Europe! (Check and remember the local emergency services number for other resorts!)
- What else? Be sensible with alcohol consumption, don’t listen to music on the pistes and never use ski apps that challenge your speed!
We’re really hopeful that by following the code, the pistes will become a safer place for all users, and that’s why we’re honoured to be sharing this campaign. You can find out more on the Piste X Code website, where there are many resources and even a quiz to test your knowledge!
This post is a paid partnership for the Ski Safe Blogger Campaign by AliKats Mountain Holidays and Piste X Code.
Family Of Wanderlusters 
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