Ski holidays: our tips for combining fun and safety

Going skiing is often synonymous with freedom, snowy landscapes and thrilling sensations. Whether you choose the Alps, the Vosges or another European destination, skiing remains a demanding sport that puts significant strain on the body and requires vigilance and preparation.

In Luxembourg, many residents take advantage of school holidays to escape to nearby ski resorts. Yet each season, ski accidents remind us that a few careless mistakes can quickly turn a holiday into a bad memory. Knee sprains, fractures, collisions or even mountain rescue costs can have significant physical and financial consequences.

Here are our tips for skiing safely and making the most of your winter sports holiday.

Before you leave: prepare your body to reduce the risk of ski accidents

Alpine skiing mainly works the leg muscles, abdominals and back. It also requires good balance and cardiovascular endurance. However, many holidaymakers go from moderate activity to intensive practice over several consecutive days.

To reduce the risk of injury, it is advisable to start physical preparation a few weeks before departure:

• practise an endurance activity such as brisk walking, cycling or swimming

• strengthen the quadriceps, hamstrings and core muscles

• work on flexibility and balance

A healthy lifestyle also plays a key role. A balanced diet rich in fruit and vegetables, along with proper hydration, helps improve muscle recovery and prevent fatigue on the slopes.

Appropriate equipment: the foundation of ski safety

Ski helmet: a must for everyone

Although mainly mandatory for children in certain resorts, wearing a ski helmet is strongly recommended for all skiers. Collisions account for a significant proportion of slope accidents, and wearing a helmet greatly reduces the risk of head injury.

A ski mask or goggles, reinforced gloves, a back protector or wrist guards can also complement your equipment depending on your level and practice.

Binding adjustment: a crucial point

A large proportion of ski accidents, particularly knee sprains, are linked to incorrectly adjusted bindings. They must be set according to your weight, height, age and technical level.

Having your bindings checked by a professional at the rental shop or specialised store at the start of your stay is essential, even if you own your equipment. Proper adjustment can prevent serious injuries such as torn cruciate ligaments.

Just before putting on your skis

The excitement of the first day may tempt you to head straight for difficult slopes. However, a few simple precautions can significantly reduce the risks.

Adapt slope difficulty to your level

From green to black, each colour corresponds to a difficulty level. Overestimating your abilities is a frequent cause of accidents. It is advisable to start with easier slopes to regain your confidence, especially at the beginning of your stay.

Check weather conditions and avalanche risk

Before heading out, consult the resort’s weather reports and avalanche risk information. In case of poor visibility or heavy snowfall, it may be wise to shorten or postpone your outing.

For official mountain safety information, consult local authorities or specialised organisations at your destination.

Warm up before skiing

A few minutes of warm-up exercises significantly reduce the risk of muscle injuries. Mobilise your ankles, knees and hips, and perform a few squats and small jumps to activate blood circulation.

Also remember to apply high-protection sunscreen and protect your lips. At high altitude, UV rays are particularly intense, even on cloudy days.

On the slopes: follow safety rules

Ski slopes are shared spaces. Respect for others and right-of-way rules is essential to avoid collisions.

Some key principles:

• adapt your speed to your level, slope conditions and skier density

• respect the priority of the skier downhill from you

• avoid stopping in narrow sections or behind a hill

• clear the slope quickly after a fall

When joining a slope or approaching an intersection, make sure you do not obstruct other users. If you need to walk uphill, always stay on the side of the slope.

These simple rules help improve coexistence and significantly reduce accidents.

Off-piste skiing: for experienced skiers only

Off-piste skiing is attractive for its wild and spectacular nature. However, it involves significant risks, particularly avalanches. This activity should be reserved for experienced skiers and ideally undertaken with a local guide.

When leaving secured areas, it is essential to:

• never go alone

• inform someone of your itinerary

• carry an avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe

• check avalanche bulletins

Caution remains the best ally for thrill seekers.

Ski accidents: what are the financial consequences?

An accident in the mountains can generate high costs. Slope rescue, helicopter transport, hospitalisation abroad or civil liability in case of collision can represent substantial expenses.

For Luxembourg residents, reimbursement by the CNS may be partial depending on the country and the situation. It is therefore essential to check your coverage before departure.

In this context, travel insurance adapted to winter sports may include:

• coverage of search and rescue costs

• reimbursement of medical expenses abroad

• civil liability in case of damage caused to a third party

• assistance and repatriation

At Foyer, for example, the Travel module integrated into the mozaïk home insurance policy can cover cancellation, baggage and medical expenses abroad. For ski enthusiasts who own specific equipment, the Recreational goods module can also provide protection in case of damage or theft.

The goal is not to ski with apprehension, but to travel with peace of mind, knowing that unexpected events can be handled efficiently.

Conclusion: preparation and caution for a successful holiday

Skiing is an exciting sport accessible at all ages, provided certain safety rules are respected. Proper physical preparation, suitable equipment, respect for other skiers and constant vigilance are the keys to limiting risks.

Before leaving for your winter sports holiday, take the time to review your insurance policies and assess whether your coverage is suited to skiing and travel abroad.

Need to review your guarantees or receive personalised advice? A Foyer Lux-Assurances advisor can help analyse your situation and ensure you head to the slopes with complete peace of mind.