Road traffic isn’t the only system with strict regulations. Ski slopes also follow clear rules, and ignoring them can lead to serious injuries for you or others. In this article, we take a closer look at the set of rules known as the FIS Ski Code.
To ensure safety on the slopes, the International Ski Federation (FIS) has established globally recognized rules. Think of them as a “ten commandments” for skiing and snowboarding that every rider should know before entering the piste. These rules apply in Canada, the Alps, and ski resorts across Slovakia as well. If you’re heading to Jasná, it’s highly recommended to familiarize yourself with them before your first run.
Respect for others
All slope users are required to behave in a way that does not endanger or harm others. Skiers and snowboarders must avoid causing injury to themselves or others through reckless skiing, inappropriate equipment, improperly stored gear, or reduced reaction ability due to fatigue, illness, or alcohol.
Speed and skiing style control
Always adjust your speed and skiing style to the current conditions, weather, visibility, slope difficulty, and—most importantly—your own skills and experience. Also take into account how crowded the slope is.
Choosing your line and direction
Any skier or snowboarder coming from above is responsible for avoiding those below. You must choose your direction in a way that does not endanger skiers ahead of you.
If you are skiing in front of someone, you are responsible for maintaining enough distance and anticipating their movements.
Overtaking
You may overtake on either the left or right side. However, it must always be done in a way that does not endanger the skier being overtaken and leaves them enough space to change direction.
Entering and restarting on a slope
When entering a ski run or restarting after stopping, you must first look uphill and give way to all skiers coming from above. At the same time, you must ensure you do not endanger those below you.
Stopping and standing
It is forbidden to stop or stand on the slope unnecessarily, especially in narrow sections or areas with limited visibility. Stopping behind terrain crests is considered particularly dangerous. If a skier or snowboarder falls in such a spot, they must leave it as quickly as possible.
Ascending and descending on foot
Anyone moving uphill or downhill on skis or on foot must stay at the edge of the ski slope. This applies mainly to ski mountaineers and pedestrians, but also to skiers who have exceeded their abilities and are descending on foot.
Respecting slope signage
Ski runs include various warning signs indicating dangerous sections, intersections, and calls to slow down or increase caution. Compliance with these rules is supervised by the ski patrol, which ensures that the FIS Code is respected throughout the Jasná resort in the Low Tatras.
Providing help in case of an accident
If you witness an accident, you are required to stop and provide first aid. It is also important to clearly mark the accident site using crossed ski poles and report the incident to the Mountain Rescue Service (Horská záchranná služba). In Jasná, they can be reached at 18 300.
Identification
Every person involved in an accident, including witnesses, must present identification upon request to the Mountain Rescue Service, ski patrol, public authorities, or resort staff.
