Most slope accidents aren’t about difficulty – they’re about someone not knowing (or not following) the basic rules of shared space on a crowded run. The FIS Code of Conduct is the official set of rules for skiers and snowboarders everywhere, and it’s worth actually reading before your first run in Zakopane, not just nodding along to.
The FIS Code of Conduct, All 10 Points
1. Consideration for others. Behave so you don’t cause danger or harm to others.
2. Control of speed and style. Ski at a speed appropriate to your ability, the slope, and conditions.
3. Choice of direction. Choose your path so you don’t endanger skiers ahead of you.
4. Overtaking. Pass on either side, uphill or downhill, but leave enough space that you don’t restrict the other skier.
5. Crossing paths. Check both up- and downhill before starting to ski or stopping on a slope.
6. Stopping. Avoid stopping in narrow sections or areas with poor visibility; after a fall, clear the track quickly.
7. Climbing. Climb only along the side of the slope, and move off it entirely in poor visibility.
8. Complying with signs. Follow the ski signs posted on the slopes.
9. Accidents. If you’re nearby when an accident happens, help the injured person.
10. Identifying yourself. Anyone involved – at fault, injured, or a witness – must provide their details if asked.
Fitness Matters More Than People Expect
Good physical condition year-round, not just before the season, keeps your body ready for skiing. If daily exercise isn’t realistic, at least do a quick warm-up before every trip to the slope – it reduces the risk of falls and injuries. Ski-specific gymnastics is worth building into your routine if you ski regularly.
Equipment Set Up for You, Not Just Any Skier
Boots should be comfortable, measured with a ski sock, with no pressure points but full freedom of movement. The right pole length is one where your arm and forearm form a right angle when the pole tip is in the snow. Skis and snowboards should be properly waxed, edges sharpened, and bindings adjusted for your ability, weight, and height – not generic settings. Clothing should include thermal base layers, a ski jacket and pants, warm gloves, a helmet, and goggles or sunglasses. GO!Ski’s rental equipment is prepared to these standards before every rental.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the single most important rule on a busy slope?
Consideration for others – ski in a way that doesn’t put people below or around you at risk, which underlies most of the other nine points.
Do I need my own equipment adjusted specifically for me?
Yes – generic settings on boots, poles, and bindings increase both discomfort and injury risk. GO!Ski’s rental team adjusts equipment to your ability, weight, and height.
Should I warm up before skiing even on a short trip?
Yes – a quick warm-up before each session on the slope meaningfully reduces the risk of falls and injuries.
Getting your equipment properly fitted is half of skiing safely. See the ski rental offer or book your gear before you hit the slopes.
