Ski Health and Safety Advice

Medical Matters

Holidaymakers should check with their own doctor for advice on medical requirements of the host countries and ensure that they each have a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) which has now replaced the old style E111. Information about free and reduced-cost emergency care and medical treatment is available on the website www.dh.gov.uk/travellers. The EHIC is valid for 5 years and can be obtained or renewed by applying online at www.ehic.org.uk or by calling 0845 606 2030. If your card is lost or stolen, call the EHIC enquiry line on 0845 605 0707 or 0044 191 212 7500 if calling from abroad.

The EHIC is NOT an alternative to travel insurance. It will not cover any private medical healthcare or the cost of things such as mountain rescue in ski resorts, repatriation to the UK or lost or stolen property. Therefore, you must also take out comprehensive travel insurance cover including winter sports cover if applicable.

Special needs, disabled and elderly customers

We are happy to advise and assist elderly, special needs or disabled customers to choose a holiday. However, please be aware that the nature of ski resorts means that properties may well lack facilities such as ramps for wheelchairs and lifts etc. Therefore, please advise us in writing of any disability or special requirements before booking so we can confirm that your holiday choice is suitable.

Know before you go

Before you travel abroad, check the Foreign and Commonwealth Office website at www.fco.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo for specific advice on the country you are visiting.

Safety in the Mountains

Any mountain sport can be dangerous so please take care to minimise the risks by observing the following basic guidelines:-

1. Choose your resort carefully

   If you are holidaying with a mixed ability group, take care to choose a resort which is suitable for both novice and more experienced skiers. When skiing together, always choose routes that are within the capabilities of everyone in the party. Please note that the steep terrain in some resorts favoured by experienced skiers may also carry an increased avalanche risk.

2. High altitude

   If you have any concerns, or existing health problems that may be affected by altitude, we suggest you contact your GP for advice before visiting a high altitude ski resort. Please bear in mind that it may take a while to acclimatise to skiing at high altitude – drink plenty of water, limit your alcohol intake and ensure you wear appropriate clothing for the conditions. Remember that weather conditions in the mountains can change without warning.

3. Avalanche danger

   Great care is taken by lift companies and resort authorities to ensure that marked pistes are as safe as possible but you must always adhere to guidance given in the resort and never ignore avalanche warnings. If a decision is made in extreme weather conditions to close some or all of the pistes, this is done for your safety so do not attempt to ski on closed pistes or beyond safety ropes.

4. Off-piste

   If you wish to venture off-piste, you must have appropriate insurance and should ski with a qualified guide. Always ensure you have up to date information, the correct equipment and take heed of any avalanche warnings.

5. Snow conditions

   For 'Snowline' information before you travel, we suggest you visit the website of the Ski Club of Great Britain or that of your resort. Local Tourist Offices offer daily weather forecasts and snow reports in resort.

6. Ski Instruction

   Never over-estimate your ability on the slopes. It is sensible to have lessons with a qualified instructor when you try skiing or snowboarding for the first time. This will help ensure the safety of yourself and others and enable you to get the most enjoyment out of your holiday.

7. Ski Equipment

   Please ensure that you are equipped with suitable ski clothing and accessories plus properly fitted equipment for your chosen activity. Ski helmets are either recommended or compulsory for children under 15 years in most countries including Italy, Slovenia & certain French and Austrian resorts.

8. UV Protection

   Exposure to UV rays from the sun can be very high in the mountains so always protect exposed skin and lips with a high factor sunscreen. Good quality sunglasses or goggles are also essential for adults and children alike to avoid potential eye damage.

9. Other Activities

   Other mountain activities such as snow-mobiling, paragliding, dog sledding and even tobogganing all carry risks. Ensure that you have the correct equipment and instruction where necessary and do not undertake any activity without adequate insurance cover. Snow, slush and ice are natural hazards in ski resorts so take extra care when walking, driving etc in these conditions.