Though the risks can be few, coaches have a responsibility to ensure that athletes know, understand and appreciate the risks of Alpine skiing. The safety and well-being of athletes are the coaches' primary concerns. Accidents may occur if coaches forget to take safety precautions. It is each coach's responsibility to minimize the occurrence of injuries by providing safe conditions for training and competition. Athletes must be made aware of the risks associated with Alpine skiing.
Establish clear rules for behavior at the first training session, and enforce them:
Listen to the coach.
Ask the coach before you leave the training session.
Establish appropriate communication with training venue, including ski patrol.
Warm up and stretch properly at the beginning and end of each training session.
Make sure athletes have access to water to drink.
Make sure medical services are available.
Train all athletes and coaches on emergency procedures.
Make sure certified technicians are available to make adjustments to equipment.
Choose a safe area. Do not practice in areas that are not properly prepared for training.
Practice on slopes that are appropriate to the skill level of your athletes.
Train to improve the general fitness level of your skiers. Physically fit skiers are less likely to get injured. Make sure your training sessions are active.
