The rule #2 of the skier responsibility code clearly states that the downhill skier always has the right of way, placing the burden on those above to avoid collisions but it becomes a bit murky when applied to terrain parks where often times land zones are not visible from above and skiers and snowboarders regularly launch jumps with the assumption that the landing zone is clear.
The National Ski Areas Association has a Park SMART safety initiative that calls for skiers and snowboarders to “always look before you drop” to avoid collisions in landing zones but in practice that simple directive often times falls short, especially if you are skiing or riding alone and don’t have the benefit of a spotter. Using commonsense is your best bet when it comes to staying safe in terrain parks and its commonsense that you shouldn’t allow children to linger in blind spots bellow jumps.
The following video is a great example of the dangers of children skiing below terrain park jumps. If not for the absolutely incredible reflexes by skier Dave Sugnet, this could have been a truly terrible collision:
“Have you seen your child today? Please, please, please tell your children to stay away from landings in the large terrain park. This was way too close.”
Remember folks, teaching kids proper park etiquette should be mandatory even if they aren’t interested getting into jumps and rails. Be smart out there and teach the kids how to be safe in and around terrain parks.
Park SMARTÂ Terrain Park Safety
START SMALL: Work your way up. Build your skills.
MAKE A PLAN: Every feature. Every time.
ALWAYS LOOK: Before you drop.
RESPECT: The features and other users.
TAKE IT EASY: Know your limits. Land on your feet.
