Ski safety Info for Zephyr Condo Guests


*SKI Safety* *The following is adapted from Colorado Ski Magazine*
*MOUNTAIN AWARENESS* High Elevation Winter Park base area is 9000 feet and the top elevation exceeds 12000 feet. That means thinner air and less oxygen per breath which could lead to altitude sickness. symptoms include headaches, lightheadedness, fatigue, loss of appetite and nausea. To minimize your risks, try - taking it easy especially on the first couple of days - drink lots of water - avoid excessive alcohol - avoid sleeping pills and cigarettes If you develop the symptoms aspirin or ibuprofen are OK. Hypothermia Prolonged exposure to cold and wind can reduce the body's temperature causing hypothermia. There are lots of factors that can lead you into this state: cold temperatures, improper clothing, getting wet, fatigue, alcohol, wind. You can avoid hypothermia if you follow common sense tips like - layering properly, - wearing waterproof and windproof shells, - watching what you eat and drink If you should develop uncontrolled shivering, head to the nearest shelter to warm up. Any Winter Park lift operator will be happy to share the warmth of their building in the interest of your safety. Sunburn The high altitudes and white snow of skiing result in much more ultraviolet radiation than visitors are accustomed to at lower elevations. A cloudless day can result in a nasty sunburn that might minimally make the remainder of a vacation uncomfortable and could even lead to skin cancer. Buy and use 30 SPF sun block. And don't forget you lips -- use 15 SPF block.
GROUP SKIING TIPS Try two-way radio's. Rent or bring these handy devices. While they sound like an ideal way to summon ski patrol, coverage across the mountain is spotty. A better bet for emergency purposes is your cell phone. Study your Trail Map. Because Winter Park has multiple skiing mountains and lots of peaks and valleys, it is easy to get disoriented. Always maintain an idea of where you are, how to find the nearest shelter, and how to get down. If you are lost, just ask any Winter Park employee for assistance. Pick a meeting point. It can be a challenge to keep your party together. The best idea is to pick a meeting point for mid-morning, mid-day and of course end-of-day. You may also get separated while making a simple run. Our suggestion is to agree to meet at the lift terminal at the bottom of the run. There are ski area employees with radio's, phones, and shelter at the bottom of every lift.
*SKIERS RESPONSIBILITY CODE* 1. Always stay in control and be able to stop or avoid objects 2. People ahead of you have the right of way. It is your responsibility to avoid them. 3. Do not stop where you could obstruct the trail or are not visible from above 4. Whenever starting downhill or merging into a trail, yield to others. 5. Use devices to help prevent runaway equipment 6. Observe all posted signs and warnings 7. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas [note: the penalty for violation is fine up to $300 and jail up to 30 days] 8. Prior to using any lift, you must know how to load, ride, and unload safely.
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Zephyr Lodge Condo -- Area Information