Staying Safe on the Slopes

Here at Porters, we take safety very seriously. Alpine environments can be challenging at times, though with effective safety consideration and operations, they can be fun as well as safe. We thought we'd take a moment to pass on a little knowledge and some recommendations that may help make your ski or snowboard experience safer, and more enjoyable.

At Porters, we strongly recommend the use of helmets. Wearing a helmet can be instrumental in preventing serious injuries while skiing or snowboarding. Protection from other mountain users, rocks during a fall, or even just firm snowpack during a fall is essential. They also give you a canvas to load up all your favorite stickers and show your style! A recent survey on the ski area to find out about on mountain helmet usage revealed some very interesting and impressing findings. 85% of children 11 and younger wore helmets, 51% of teenagers and adults 50%. We've taken up the challenge and intend on strengthening those figures considerably during the winter season. DO YOU HAVE A HELMET? If the answer is no, you need to come and see us at Porters Guest services next time you're on the hill. We have a range of discounted helmets available, in an effort to try and get 'skid lids' on heads this winter. Children's helmets are only $60, and Adults just $80. You wont get a quality snow helmet cheaper than that…

Helmets-a-plenty!

Effective gear control is another huge safety consideration to take into account - you need to be in control of your equipment at all times. For skiers, this means ensuring that the brakes on you ski bindings are fully operational. If they don't spring into place when the ski is removed, they will travel to the valley floor very quickly. For snowboarders, it means that you always need to use a leash when riding. Binding failure can occur with snowboards, meaning a large slippery plastic projectile is loose on the ski slope. Leashes should also be used to attach your snowboard to you when hiking, meaning that if you fall, it is still tethered to your body. ALL SNOWBOARDERS MUST USE LEASHES AT PORTERS. You will not be allowed on the lifts if not using your leash. Leashes are available from guest services for only $5.

We all want to get the kids involved in the sport from an early age, but some common sense is also required. All too often we see parents attempting to ski with their toddlers, and carrying them on the lifts, along with skiing with them in packs. We strongly recommend that young children use the lifts and ski of their own accord, using the beginner and intermediate areas to enhance their skills before venturing further on the ski area under their own steam. Please consult Porters Operation staff if you are unsure what safe practices you should employ when skiing with your young children. Porters offer an interchangeable parent day pass for those parents with toddlers who require constant assistance on the slopes. This allows two parents to utilize the same ski pass individually, rather than purchasing a pass each. Conditions apply, see guest services for more information.

Crystal Valley 28th Jul - (C) Bernie Wicht, Macpac

Backcountry travel is very appealing to advanced skiers and riders, but some common sense, practical knowledge, crucial equipment, and respect for the alpine environment could save your life. ALWAYS travel in parties, and ensure that ALL members are wearing an avalanche transceiver and are carrying a shovel and probe. These are your only means of rescue should an avalanche event occur. Knowing about the snow conditions and backcountry travel practices are also key to ensuring your safety, so do a course and find out what you need to know to be safe, check out www.mountainsafety.org.nz for more info and course schedules. Finally, if you are planning on leaving the ski area boundary, make sure you sign out AND in with Porters Patrol. They will pass on their knowledge on current conditions and their advice, and knowing where you are and your travel plans is important. Porters Patrol Dispatch is located at the summit of T-3.

Porters Patrol Dispatch - Summit of T-3

Thanks for taking the time to read this information. If you have any further queries, please contact us and we'll be happy to assist. Be safe in the mountains, and respect your environment.

Porters Team.