The Michigan Snowsports Industries Association and its member resorts in Michigan have adopted the Ski California Mountain Safety Guide to educate our guests on how to ski and snowboard responsibly and safely while having a fun experience. Learning and practicing what is contained in this guide, using common sense, and making good decisions will contribute to your safety and the safety of all guests.
So, you’re ready to ski or snowboard. Whether it was family or friends, or love for outdoor recreation that brought you here, PREPARATION will help your trip to the slopes be both enjoyable and safe.
Always stay in control. You must be able to stop or avoid people or objects.
People ahead or downhill of you have the right-of-way. You must avoid them.
Stop only where you are visible from above and do not restrict traffic.
Look uphill and avoid others before starting downhill or entering a trail.
You must prevent runaway equipment.
Read and obey all signs, warnings and hazard markings.
Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
You must know how and be able to load, ride and unload lifts safely. If you need assistance, ask the attendant.
Do not use the lifts or terrain when impaired by alcohol or drugs.
If you are involved in a collision or incident, share your contact information with each other and a ski area employee.
Wear a properly fitted helmet with the chin strap securely tightened to help prevent or minimize injuries.
Have bindings inspected and correctly adjusted by a certified technician.
Dress in water– and wind-resistant outerwear and layers to accommodate changing conditions.
Use sunscreen and wear goggles or sunglasses.
Every experience level can benefit from professional instruction.
Skiing and snowboarding are active and exciting outdoor sports with inherent risks that cannot be eliminated, including the risk of serious injury and death. Because of these risks, it is YOUR responsibility to be aware of your surroundings, the conditions, and your ability.
Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Ski or ride at a speed you are able to safely stop and avoid others and objects you may encounter.
They may be on the slopes heading uphill or downhill, so stay clear of them at all times.
Both natural and man-made. Resorts may use poles, flags, discs, ropes, fencing, signs, and other devices to provide visual warnings. No resort can mark all hazards and obstacles. Be aware of changing conditions.
Ropes and closures are in place for your safety.
Maps and signs contain information that can help you find trails and lifts, know when trails merge or if terrain is closed, learn where slow skiing and riding is required, and locate ski patrol and other mountain services.
Trail difficulty ratings are relative to each resort’s specific terrain and rating systems do vary by resort (e.g., a “blue diamond” for more difficult intermediate runs), so guests should always be aware of a particular resort’s rating system. Work your way up from easier to more difficult trails. When in doubt about a trail or what type of terrain a lift serves, ask resort staff for guidance.
Lift incidents are almost always avoidable. It’s important (and part of Your Responsibility Code) to know how to load, ride and unload all lifts safely.
Terrain parks offer unique challenges and risks. Every park is different and it is important to use features that meet your ability. All users should educate themselves on Park SMART.
Parents, make sure you understand Park SMART and ensure your kids are educated on the proper use of terrain parks and their features.
These are voids or depressions in the snow that form around the base of a tree and are often hidden by low branches. Michigan does have backcountry and glade skiing areas where tree wells may be a danger. Skiers and riders can fall into these wells. To avoid tree wells, steer clear of trees and stay in control.
Always maintain visual contact and stay close enough so that you can assist or call for help if needed.
When it comes to safety, we are all in this together. Our Commitment to Safety helps us prepare and operate the mountain for your enjoyment. Your Responsibility Code helps you understand the rules you must follow to enjoy a safe day on the slopes.
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. Remember that staying in control is the best way to stay safe on the slopes.
We are committed to addressing safety every day and in every facet of our operations. This guide is part of that commitment.
