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Increasingly, skiers and boarders are looking
to get away from the crowded pistes and enjoy the backcountry fields
and slopes. Unfortunately many do this without an understanding
of the dangers and hazards awaiting them.
One day courses this winter
Natives have teamed up with Mountain Tracks
who are running a course to provide competent skiers and boarders
with some essential knowledge to get the most out of their time
on the slopes and to minimise the risks of accidents and injury
whilst skiing.
On this one day course, participants can learn the skills to give
them more confidence when skiing and boarding on and off-piste.
They can learn how to avoid the many dangers and hazards and how
to cope with 'incidents'. This is a hands-on course led by qualified
IFMGA mountain guides and directed with maximum attention to the
safety of the group and the safety of others on the slopes.
When, who and where
The one day courses will run daily from Saturday 6 December - Sunday
14 December 2003 (other dates available on request) and the majority
of the day will be spent out on the mountain.
The course is suitable
for intermediate and advanced skiers or boarders who can confidently
ski red runs with linked turns. It is particularly recommended for
skiers who are planning to spend a lot of time on the slopes. Off-piste
skiing experience is not required.
The locations are Tignes/Val
D'Isere, Meribel/Courchevel & Morzine/Avoriaz in France, and
Verbier & Zermatt in Switzerland. Each course is limited to
12. The minimum number required for the course to run is 6. The
training will be organised by Nick Parks, IFMGA guide and Director
of Mountain Tracks. Nick will be assisted by other IFMGA qualified
Mountain Guides as required.
Topics covered
1. The Avalanche hazard; how to recognise the danger and how to
avoid it, followed by practical avalanche search and rescue scenarios
2. Discussion and demonstrations of the safety equipment that all
skiers and boarders should carry at all times when skiing off-piste.
3. The Falling hazard; security on steep ground, dealing with ice,
what to do if you do fall
4. Dealing with incidents, near misses and accidents
5. Getting safely off the mountain; tips for coping with difficult
snow conditions
6. Route planning and navigation, where you can and cannot (must
not) go
Cost, insurance & booking
The basic cost of the course is £40. This price includes
the course fees only, not insurance or lift pass. Mountain Tracks
are also able to provide well-priced accommodation in each resort.
If you require accommodation, please let them know at the time of
booking.
All participants must
be covered for skiing off-piste on glaciers. Proof of insurance
must be provided before commencement of the course.
Booking
For more information and to book your place onto this course Contact
Mountain Tracks by email
or on 020 8877 5773 to check availability for your preferred date
and location. Bookings must be made by 21 November at the latest.
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