Safety

Started in the 2006-07 season, Project Slow Down is a safety measure in place to keep skiers and snowboarders at safe speeds in slow-skiing and high-traffic areas.

Offenders get three strikes:

• Strike 1 - Pass/ticket punched
• Strike 2 - Pass/ticket voided for up to 10 days
• Strike 3 - Pass/ticket revoked for season

Skiing can be enjoyed in many ways. At ski areas you may see people using alpine, snowboard, telemark, cross country and other specialized ski equipment, such as that used by disabled or other skiers. Regardless of how you decide to enjoy the slopes, always show courtesy to others and be aware that there are elements of risk in skiing that common sense and personal awareness can help reduce. Observe the code listed below and share with other skiers the responsibility for a great skiing experience.

• 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.

KNOW THE CODE. IT'S YOUR RESPONSIBILITY.

This is a partial list. Be safety conscious.
Officially endorsed by: NATIONAL SKI AREAS ASSOCIATION.

• LOOK BEFORE YOU LEAP
  Scope around the jumps first, not over them. Know your landings are clear and clear yourself out of the landing area.
• EASY STYLE IT
  Start small and work your way up. (Inverted aerials not recommended).
• RESPECT GETS RESPECT
  From the lift line through the park.

This is a partial list. Be safety conscious.
Officially endorsed by: NATIONAL SKI AREAS ASSOCIATION.

NSAA Recommended Safety Tips

Tips for Prior to Hitting the Slope

• Get in shape.
  Don't try to ski yourself into shape. You'll enjoy skiing more if you're physically fit.
• Obtain proper equipment.
  Be sure to have your ski or snowboard bindings adjusted correctly at a local ski shop. You can rent good ski or snowboarding equipment at resorts.
• When buying skiwear,
  look for fabric that is water and wind-resistant. Look for wind flaps to shield zippers, snug cuffs at wrists and ankles, collars that can be snuggled up to the chin and drawstrings that can be adjusted for comfort and keep wind out. Be sure to buy quality clothing and products.
• Dress in layers.
  Layering allows you to accommodate your body's constantly changing temperature. For example, dress in polypropylene underwear (top and bottoms), which feels good next to the skin, dries quickly, absorbs sweat and keeps you warm. Wear a turtleneck, sweater and jacket.
• Be prepared.
  Mother Nature has a mind of her own. Bring a headband or hat with you to the slopes, 60 percent of heat-loss is through the head. Wear gloves or mittens (mittens are usually better for those susceptible to cold hands).
• Wear sun protection.
  The sun reflects off the snow and is stronger than you think, even on cloudy days!
• Always wear eye protection. Have sunglasses and goggles with you. Skiing and snowboarding are a lot more fun when you can see.

Tips for while on the Slopes

• Take a lesson.
  Like anything, you'll improve the most when you receive some guidance. The best way to become a good skier or snowboarder is to take a lesson from a qualified instructor.
• ALWAYS SKI OR RIDE WITH A BUDDY.
  When skiing or riding in deep powder, it is often difficult to get up after a fall. It is especially difficult for snowboarders as their board can anchor them down. Ski Patrol states that it is imperative for skiers and snowboarders to use the buddy system in these conditions. Always arrange a meeting place when you get off a chair, such as the bottom of a chairlift, in case you do get separated. Ensure that the meeting place is close by in case your buddy needs help. If your buddy does not turn up, either search for them immediately or ask a Mammoth Mountain employee to assist you.
• The all-important warm-up run prepares you mentally and physically for the day ahead.
• The key to successful skiing/snowboarding is control.
  To have it, you must be aware of your technique, the terrain and the skiers and snowboarders around you. Be aware of the snow conditions and how they can change. As conditions turn firm, the skiing gets hard and fast. Begin a run slowly. Skiing and snowboarding require a mental and physical presence.
• If you find yourself on a slope that exceeds your ability level,
  always leave your skis on and side step down the slope. Snowboarders should keep their board on and sit low to the ground, using their edge to slow their sliding. In soft conditions snowboarders may take off their snowboard, have the leash around his/her wrist to prevent a runaway board, and walk down the hill.
• Drink plenty of water.
  Be careful not to become dehydrated.
• Curb alcohol consumption.
  Skiing and snowboarding do not mix well with alcohol or drugs.
• Know your limits.
  Learn to ski and snowboard smoothly—and in control. Stop before you become fatigued and, most of all have fun.
• If you’re tired,
  stop skiing. In this day and age of multi-passenger gondolas and high-speed chairlifts, you can get a lot more time on the slopes compared to the days of the past when guests were limited to fixed grip chairlifts.

Follow the “Your Responsibility Code,” the seven safety rules of the slopes.