Accident Procedure on Steep Terrain

Recommended practice time: 20–30 min

Introduction

On steep sections, small errors escalate fast. A clear protocol protects the injured person, you and other skiers.

4-Step Protocol

  1. Secure the scene
    Stop above the incident, set a visible barrier (crossed skis/poles), warn others and route traffic around.
  2. Call for help
    Alert ski patrol. Provide run name/marker, number of patients and key issues (consciousness/bleeding).
  3. Rapid check: ABC & warmth
    Airway and breathing, control bleeding, protect from cold (jackets/blanket). Avoid moving neck/spine if suspected injury.
  4. Prepare for evacuation
    Clear uphill line, manage bystanders, then hand over to patrol and follow instructions.
Steep-slope accident protocol: mark scene, secure upstream, call patrol, assess ABC, assist evacuation.
Safety first: protect the scene, call help, ABC and warmth, then evacuate.

Typical mistakes

  • Stopping below the incident – exposed to further collisions.
  • Failing to mark a steep-slope accident site.
  • Moving the injured without need or immobilization.
  • Ignoring hypothermia risk while waiting.

Beginner questions

What if I’m alone?

Secure the site as best you can, call patrol and stay with the injured. If you must go for help, clearly mark the location and memorize landmarks.

Should I remove boots or helmet?

No. Do not remove the helmet or boots unless instructed by professionals or there’s an immediate airway/bleeding risk.

Instructor’s tip

“On steeps, think farther uphill. Securing the approach protects everyone.”

Conclusion

A simple protocol shortens time to care and limits secondary risk: secure, alert, assess, evacuate.