Increase Your Winter Sport Fun by Decreasing the Risks
Ski Lift Safety
Skiing and snowboarding are invigorating, exciting and fun but there are risks involved. Perhaps some of the most significant risks occur not on the slopes, but on the ski lifts.
That’s why in Ontario all chair lifts, bar lifts and rope tows require:
- A valid TSSA license for each device
- An inspection by TSSA
But we can’t do it alone, as a rider you also have a responsibility to ensure your own safety.
Find out how to RideSmart on ski lifts with these helpful tips:
Catching a Lift
- Load at designated areas only.
- Read the rules for each lift carefully before loading.
- Remove the pole straps from your wrists.
- Hold the poles point down before entering the loading area.
- Sit down properly and hold on to safety equipment.
- Lower the safety bar.
- Listen to and obey the operator’s instructions at all times.
On Your Way to the Top
- Keep the tips of your skis or snowboard up.
- Always keep long hair, hats and scarves secure to avoid entanglement.
- Remain seated and don’t bounce or swing on the chair lift.
- Never throw or drop anything from the lift.
When You’ve Reached the Top
- Unload at designated areas only.
- Clear the unloading area immediately.
- Listen to and obey the operator’s instructions at all times.
- Report any problems or concerns to the lift operator right away.
Take your child’s safety into your own hands
Take an active role in making sure that the lift is appropriate for your child. As a parent, it’s your job. Once you’ve made that decision, be sure your child is aware of what behaviour is acceptable for all chair lifts, bar lifts or rope tows.
Stop and think before your last run
Skiing and snowboarding involve lots of physical exertion, and it’s tiring, especially towards the end of the day. That’s the time when concentration starts to slip and accidents occur. Think before you head for that last run, and if you’re tired, pack it in for the day. That way you can be sure that you have a full day of fun on the slopes.
The Operator is in charge and responsible
The lift operator has full authority to remove anyone from the lift or tow who poses a safety risk to themselves or others. To ensure that lift owners are properly and safely setting up, maintaining and operating all lifts, TSSA inspectors evaluate the performance of all lifts by inspecting them throughout the season.
Your safety is our business
TSSA and the Ski Industry work together to provide the safest atmosphere for riders of all ages.
Ontario’s Elevating Devices Act requires that all riders obey all warnings and directions regarding any lift and behave in a manner that will not cause injury to themselves or others.
YOU have a responsibility to follow the rules and RideSmart – to ensure that your day at the ski hill will be fun and safe.
To learn more go to www.safetyinfo.ca – Helping You Stay Safe.
