Skiing and riding are dynamic sports with each run bringing something new. You can never ski the same run twice and adapting to changes adds to the challenge and excitement.
What doesn’t change is Vermont’s commitment to safety education on the slopes and building a community of responsible skiers and riders. That’s why Ski Vermont and its member ski areas are taking advantage of National Ski Safety Month to remind everyone about the important role they play in mountain safety.
Many skiers and riders have heard of Your Responsibility Code and now is a great time to refresh yourself and the people you visit the mountains with about the elements of the Code. The Triangle of Safety is an easy reminder of what you should be aware of when enjoying time out on the mountain: Speed, Space, and Self.
A collaboration between two of Ski Vermont’s partners, The Snow Angel Foundation and The High Fives Foundation, the Triangle of Safety reminds skiers and riders what they can do to help make the mountain safer for everyone—including themselves.
Vermont’s ski areas’ commitment to safety is why Ski Vermont created the first statewide partnership with the Snow Angel Foundation, an organization that promotes collision awareness and avoidance.
“Vermont—and skiing—is really about community, and I think that’s why The Snow Angel Foundation’s message quickly found a home here,” says Molly Mahar, President of Ski Vermont, “it’s a reminder that we’re all out here for the same reason—to have fun and #RideAnotherDay. Making a choice to positively influence someone else’s day is what Vermont is known for. The first step is educating yourself and making safety a part of your routine every time you go out.”
In addition to their own safety programming, several Vermont ski areas will be hosting the Snow Angel Foundation for fun and engaging safety activities during January and early February with events like S’more Safety, burrito safety quizzes, and safety bingo.
The Snow Angel Foundation continues to expand its audience, adding presentations to ski academies and local middle schools in addition to on-mountain staff.
“Vermont has become like a second home to me,” said Snow Angel Founder Chauncy Johnson. “We started our partnership with Ski Vermont early in Snow Angel’s history and we’ve really seen people take the message to heart. It shows how committed Vermont skiers and riders are to sharing the sport responsibly.”
For on-mountain safety resources, including Your Responsibility Code and the Triangle of Safety, or to learn more about safety events at ski areas, visit skivermont.com/safety.
