Skiing and snowboarding is a fun and challenging activity beloved by many. Each year, hundreds, if not thousands of people travel to Blue a mountain to try their hand at one of both of these winter sports for the first time, so staying safe is paramount.

According to Evan Bell of the Blue Mountain Ski Patrol, the three most important things to keep in mind when it comes to hill safety is being award of your surroundings, remaining in control of your speed, and of course, wearing a helmet. What Ski Patrol notices most often when it comes to responding to accidents is that for the most part, one of more of the people involved was operating beyond their limits either by going to fast or being on a hill to advanced for their skill level, and that the people involved in the accident had been distracted and not focused on what was happening around them. By keeping eyes up and controlling speed, skiers and riders are less likely to collide with other people or obstacles in their path. When it comes to helmets, Bell says that this is essential, and novice skiers and riders in particular should always wear helmets, regardless of whether the plan to stay on beginner hills or try more advanced runs.

Those interested in trying out skiing or snowboarding for the first times can purchase beginner bundles which include lift tickets, rentals (including helmets), and a group lesson. For more information, visit https://www.bluemountain.ca/plan-your-trip/rentals/snowboard-and-ski-rentals/bundles