How Dangerous Is Skiing?

Skiing has many health benefits — from strengthening lower body muscles to burning calories. And providing great cardiovascular exercise. But every skier should be aware of the need for safety on the slopes. And the precautions to take to avoid injury. How dangerous is skiing? Find out more…

The Dangers

Is skiing dangerous? Research has shown that skiing is a relatively safe sport. Only two to three skiers out of every thousand experience a daily injury. And the most dangerous sport in the world in 2018 was scuba diving!

But mistakes can be made by the most experienced skiers. Look at extreme accidents here…

• Missing trail markings — rare accidents are caused by skiers being unaware of trail markings and knowing how to stop. This can result in skiing directly off a cliff which is life-threatening
• Snow immersion — falling into a tree well can result in a skier being hidden from view and buried by snow. A lack of oxygen and snow pressure can cause suffocation in a matter of minutes

• Avalanches — if skiers disturb packed snow causing layers of ice to fall this can result in an avalanche. As preparing for one is impossible loss of life is probably — it’s essential to ski on safe slopes only
• Head Injuries — head injuries are the cause of about 12% of all skiing injuries often due to poor head protection. Falling when skiing quickly can cause repeated injury. And contact with a tree or other obstacle can be fatal

Most Common Skiing Injuries

Skiing injuries include:

Knee Ligaments

Falling can result in the twisting of your knee ligaments. As can colliding with other skiers, and landing jumps incorrectly. The knee may swell and be very painful. Minor sprains will benefit from cold compresses — serious injuries may require surgery and a rehabilitation period.

Fractured Collar Bone

A bad fall landing on a shoulder or arm can fracture the clavicle. Pain and swelling will accompany a possible abnormality of the bone which in some cases can be seen. This injury needs urgent medical attention and the arm needs to be put in a sling immediately to prevent further complications.

Skiers Thumb

When the joint ligaments at the bottom of the thumb are strained from pole pressure this can cause painful movement and swelling. An ice pack applied to the thumb alongside a compression bandage will ease the pain and help with healing. Tapping and strapping techniques for the thumb before skiing can provide additional support.

Ski Safely

Follow these tips to stay safe:

• Follow the Snowsports highway code
• Wear a helmet

• Learn how to avoid collisions
• Watch out for ice
• Ski within your ability levels

This article is provided by Saas Property