The Alpine environment is the ultimate family destination in winter, with many exciting activities including, skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing. But as with most outdoor activities, it is important to be safety conscious and adequately plan and prepare.

Equipment:

Children's needs for learning and equipment are different to those of adults. Skis, boards, boots and bindings should be specifically made for children, not adapted for them, and equipment should be properly fitted by a reputable ski shop. Remember, children only need light ski binding settings.

Children should always wear warm, protective clothing and head gear. Specialised ski helmets give great head protection and now come in lightweight, comfortable designs.

If tobogganing, use only moulded plastic toboggans in toboggan designated areas.

Supervision:

Most resorts offer ski and snowboard schools which provide special classes for young children. Children are taught by qualified instructors and learn to ski or board with people their own age. As they become more experienced, more advanced programs are available.

Children should always be in the care of an adult rather than an older child. If you are not skiing/boarding together, be sure your children know where they can find you. Having a name tag in an obvious place (with ski lodge or home address) can help the Ski Patrol locate you should one of your children be lost or injured.

Ensure children travel safely on chairlifts: they should always ride with an adult, sit still and use any restraining devices available.

Young children:

Children should not be piggy-backed in child carriers while skiing or boarding as there is an increased risk of hypothermia and frostbite. There is also an increased risk of injury to both the skier/boarder and the child if the skier/boarder falls. Child backpacks are prohibited at some alpine resorts.

Safety signage:

In Australia, most skiing accidents occur on sunny days when the slopes and trails are more crowded and people ski faster. Children should watch for other skiers and stay on slopes and trails within their ability. Most resorts now have standardised trail markers, colour-coded to indicate the degree of difficulty. Be extra careful in the morning and late afternoon as the snow may be frozen.

This information, provided by Snow Safe Inc. serves as a guide only and does not guarantee the prevention of any loss, damage, injury or other adverse outcomes occurring whilst in the Alpine region. Snowsafe Inc. is a cooperative venture between the alpine resorts of Victoria, NSW and Tasmania. For more information, please refer to www.snowsafe.org.au

Prepare your children with the following tips before they hit the slopes:

• Stay where you can see people
• Obey all signs and warnings
• Keep off closed trails or runs
• Look out for other people and give way
• Sit still on chairlifts
• Keep warm
• Watch the weather
• Alert Ski Patrol if there is an accident
• Take care of the environment
• If lost, stay put and don't attempt to walk out alone — someone will find you