FIS-Rules of conduct

The “traffic rules” of winter sports

Like any other type of sport, skiing and snowboarding carry some risks. The FIS-Rules of Conduct are the standard for adequate sportive behaviour of careful and responsible skiing. Skiers and snowboarders aim to prevent accidents on ski and snowboard runs. These rules apply to all skiers and snowboarders. Every skier and snowboarder must know the rules and adhere to them. Anyone causing an accident in breach of the rules can be held responsible for the consequences under civil and criminal law.

1. Consider others

Every skier on the slope has to act in such a way as to not endanger or harm anyone.

2. Control of speed and way of skiing

Every skier has to adapt their speed and way of skiing to their abilities and the conditions of the terrain and the weather.

3. Choice of track

The skier coming from behind has to choose a track that does not endanger the skier in front of them.

4. Overtaking

It is permitted to overtake from above, beneath, right or left as long as you keep enough space for the other skier.

5. Entering, starting and moving upwards

Every skier entering a ski run, slope or traversing a ski terrain has to make sure that no one from above or beneath is at risk. The same applies to stopping.

6. Stopping on the slope

Every skier has to avoid stopping at narrow and unclear parts of a ski run or slope. A fallen skier has to clear their place as soon as possible.

7. Ascent and descent

The ascending skier may only use the edge of a slope. The same applies to skiers descending on foot.

8. Following the signs

Every skier has to follow the signs (markings and signposts) on the slopes.

9. How to behave in the event of an accident

In the event of an accident everyone is obliged to provide assistance.

10. Identification requirement

Every skier and snowboarder, regardless of being a witness or someone involved in the accident, has to give their personal information.

Helmets

In the province of Salzburg, it is mandatory for children and adolescents to wear helmets until they have reached the age of 15. However, wearing a helmet is also strongly recommended for all adult winter athletes.

Information about accident reports

• Who is reporting?
• Where has the accident happened and from where is it being reported?
• What happened? When?
• Short description, number of injured people, type of injury, etc.
• Is it possible to land with a helicopter? Where?
• Weather in the area of the accident:"bright" or "cloudy", cloud height, wind direction and force, range of vision in metres, type of snow, ...
• Here you can find the most important emergency numbers