When we're on the ski slopes what we need to do is enjoy ourselves. It sounds easy, doesn't it? And it is. It is because what we look for on a day off is to have fun doing our hobbies, but we're never safe from possible mishaps that might occur.
In case of any serious accident, the first thing to do is ensure the safety of the injured skier or snowboarder by planting a pair of skis crossed a few metres above the accident site, or marking the spot with something large and visible to warn others coming down the same slope. Then you should seek help by calling or going to find rescue services. At least one person should remain with the injured.
Keep the injured person warm, remove their skis or snowboard, never their boots, and don't give them any drinks, especially not alcohol. If you see any symptoms of back or neck injury do not move the injured person under any circumstances.
If the victim is bleeding heavily, try to stop the bleeding by applying pressure to the wound or cut and elevating the area if possible.
If you find someone unconscious, very carefully try to place them on their side, making sure their mouth is free of snow or other liquids (vomit). If they don't have or you can't find a pulse, or you observe they're not breathing, they'll need cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). If you don't know how to perform CPR, seek urgent help.
The less serious injuries are the most common on the slopes. Leg injuries, even the mildest ones, often require stretcher evacuation, as do shoulder dislocations or broken arms.
In case of arm injuries, they should be immobilised with a scarf or jumper to prevent movement as much as possible until the injured person is seen by a doctor. For leg injuries, they should be splinted using ski poles if necessary.
The most important thing is always to seek help, as often we're not in a position to help the injured ourselves.
