FIS slope rules, rules of conduct on the slopes, Austria

Safety comes first when skiing & snowboarding.

Helmets are compulsory for children up to the age of 15 when skiing & snowboarding in Austria. You can hire ski helmets at any ski school and in the ski rental stores in the valley. If your children take a course at one of the Gastein ski schools, they are in the best of hands. The trained instructors will teach your children how to ski and snowboard safely and are also familiar with first aid in an emergency. This makes skiing a safe experience and parents can also enjoy a carefree skiing vacation.

FIS slope rules:

1. show consideration for other skiers

All skiers must behave in such a way that they do not endanger or harm others.

2. control of speed and skiing style

Every skier must ski on sight. They must adapt their speed and skiing style to their ability, the terrain, snow and weather conditions and the density of traffic.

3. choice of lane

The skier coming from behind must choose his lane in such a way that the skier in front of him is not endangered.

4. overtaking

Overtaking is permitted from above or below, from the right or left, but always at a distance that allows the overtaken skier sufficient space for all his movements.

5. entering and starting

Every skier who has entered a ski run or wants to start again after a stop must look up and down to make sure that he can do so without endangering himself or others.

6. stopping

Every skier must avoid stopping in narrow or unclear places on a downhill run without necessity. A skier who has fallen must clear such a place as quickly as possible.

7. ascent and descent

A skier who ascends or descends on foot must use the edge of the slope.

8. observing the signs

Every skier must observe the markings and signs.

9. assistance

In the event of an accident, every skier is obliged to provide assistance.

10. identification obligation

Every skier, whether witness or participant, whether responsible or not, must provide their personal details in the event of an accident.