Educate, Elevate + Celebrate Winter Safety

Every January, ski resorts nationwide celebrate National Safety Awareness Month, a collaborative effort with the National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) and support from Ski California®. At Tahoe Donner, our commitment extends to fostering an environment where skiers and riders of all abilities and ages can shred safely and confidently. Renowned as the “best place to begin,” Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Resort is dedicated to ensuring that guests not only have a great time but also receive education on snowsports and on-mountain safety. Explore the following pages for essential safety tips and valuable resources to keep everyone stoked on safety before hitting the slopes.

SKI CALIFORNIA SAFETY DAY

On Jan. 27, 2024, participate in the sixth annual Ski California Safety Day with many exciting and educational activities around the Downhill Ski Resort highlighting best practices for safe skiing. We encourage you to read the Ski California Mountain Safety Guide to be well-prepared this winter and to win exclusive TD prizes at our Jan. 27 safety day event!  Also participate in exciting scavenger hunts and national coloring contests to snow science and safety, there will be something fun for everyone. Plus, receive 25% off Smith helmets and goggles by participating in the event!

KNOW THE CODE: IT’S YOUR RESPONSIBILITY

“Your Responsibility Code” is a universally accepted code of conduct provided by NSAA that is recognized throughout the U.S. and applies to everyone on the mountain.

1. Always stay in control. You must be able to stop or avoid people or objects.
2. People ahead or downhill of you have the right-of-way. You must avoid them.
3. Stop only where you are visible from above, and do not restrict traffic.
4. Prior to descending or entering a trail, check uphill and yield to others.
5. You must prevent runaway equipment.
6. Adhere to all signs, warnings and hazard markings.
7. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
8. You must know how and be able to load, ride and unload lifts safely; seek assistance from the lift attendant if needed.
9. Do not use lifts or terrain when under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
10. In the event of a collision or incident, exchange contact information with involved parties and notify a ski area employee.

Winter sports involve risk of serious injury or death. Your knowledge, decisions and actions contribute to your safety and that of others. If you need help understanding the Code, please ask any ski area employee.

TIPS FOR RESPONSIBLE LIFT USE

It’s your responsibility to know how to use and ride chairlifts safely.

• Familiarize yourself with the lift type and seek help if needed.
• Before loading, secure loose items, including removing backpacks and pole straps.
• Look over your shoulder to watch for any approaching chairs.
• Sit fully back in the chair, with your back against the seat rest.
• If the lift has a restraint bar, wait until everyone is seated before lowering it. Adults should assist children.
• Be aware of surroundings; let dropped items fall and ask ski patrol for help if needed.
• Prepare to raise the bar as you approach the top terminal, following signs for timing.
• No horseplay on the lifts.
• Ensure the smallest kids load closest to the lift attendant.
• Refrain from using phones, music or games during loading or unloading.

DEEP SNOW SAFETY

Fresh snow is fun, but it also creates additional inherent risks. On deep snow days, be prepared and take the necessary precautions for a fun and safe day for you and other skiers and riders.

Avoid Tree Wells: These are voids or depressions in the snow that form around the base of a tree and are often hidden by low branches. Skiers and riders can fall into these wells and die. To avoid tree wells, steer clear of trees and stay in control.

Stay With a Buddy: Always maintain visual contact and stay close enough that you can pull or dig each other out of deep snow.

Carry Information: Have the ski patrol’s number so you can quickly call for help (but be aware of areas without cell coverage).

HELMET SAFETY

• Ensure your helmet fits properly, as one size does not fit all. For growing children, consider renting a helmet from the Downhill Ski Resort for the perfect fit each time they hit the slopes.
• Tahoe Donner and NSAA advocate for young adults aged 18-34 to wear helmets, regardless of confidence or ability, as this age group exhibits the lowest rate of helmet adoption. Regardless of experience, helmets can protect against unforeseen hazards and injuries in collisions with other skiers or riders.
• Be a role model. Wearing helmets sets a positive example for young children, encouraging them to do the same. Children often learn from fellow skiers on the hill, so make a positive impact this season by consistently wearing a helmet and skiing responsibly.

MORE INFORMATION

For educational resources and to learn more about all aspects of safety, please visit the Ski California website here. Join us all month long in January for National Safety Month as California and Reno/Tahoe ski resorts promote health and wellness initiatives as well as on-mountain safety through various activities and opportunities for skiers and riders to learn and win prizes.