Know Before You Go
Don't Let Your Ski Trip Go Downhill!
'Know Before You Go' is an ongoing campaign with around 400 travel industry partners to help Brits to stay safe and healthy abroad. The Foreign Office revealed that almost a third of people in the UK do not take out travel insurance for their winter sports holidays. If you are injured whilst skiing or snowboarding, you could face a bill for thousands of pounds if not properly insured. You should always get comprehensive travel insurance, and check what you are covered for in the small print. For example, you may need extra cover for skiing off-piste.
Alcohol can affect you more quickly at high altitudes and seriously limits your awareness of danger and cold. Heavy drinking is often a key factor in many consular cases linked to skiing and snowboarding. As well as putting yourself and others at risk, if you are involved in an accident whilst under the influence of alcohol your insurance cover may be invalid. As a result, you may have to pay thousands in medical expenses if injured.
Click here to see the Know Before You Go checklist.
The 'Know Before You Go' campaign promoted these key messages for winter sports:
- Many insurers offer specific insurance for winter sports.
- Don't ski off-piste unless it is permitted, you are a competent skier and are insured to do so.
- Get fit before you go.
- Carry a first aid kit.
- Wear warm clothing.
- Use a high factor suncreen.
- Don't ski or snowboard when tired.
- Wear all-round eye protection such as goggles.
- Be aware of the risks of altitude sickness especially above 3,000 metres.
- Check ski bindings for security.
- Treat avalanche warnings seriously.
Every year thousands of British travellers seriously regret not taking these simple steps. Makre sure you read the travellers checklist, full of practical tips for having a safe and enjoyable time, just click here to view. For more information on travel advice for winter sports please click here.
