The Accident Season — For Skiers

It's that season again! Skiers are notorious for injuring themselves, either in full flight on the ski slopes or in one of the more down to earth accidents which occur apreski, such as slipping on icy steps.

The lower extremities are the most vulnerable. Torn muscles, sprained ligaments and bony fractures are all common injuries, affecting thighs, knees, legs and ankles.

Skiing places more demands on the body framework than most sports. To minimise injury skiers should embark on a phsical fitness programme before the season begins and continue this throughout the season.

Correct clothing and equipment also help to minimise accidents. Jeans are not good enough. Clothing must be warm and 50% woollen fibre is recommended. Attention to adequate food and drink can be crucial. Fatigue is a danger signal. Exhaustion, hunger, heat loss and lack of physical fitness may all contribute to exposure, the real killer on mountains.

The heart-warming illusion of the St Bernard bearing life-saving brandy must be shattered. The practice of giving alcohol to the injured is now condemned. Alcohol encourages blood flow to the skin and although the person's colour may temporarily improve, his general condition will be aggravated. Blood will be diverted from the vital organs such as the brain and further heat loss will be promoted.

If there is any possibility that a person may require an operation the rule is — Never Give Them Anything to Eat or Drink — because an anaesthetic cannot be given safely until the stomach is empty, three to four hours after the last intake.

Put safety first and you'll live to ski another day!

If you want to find out more, The Mountain Safety Council's "Skiing Manual" is available from Government Bookshops.