Skier’s Responsibility Code

Skiing can be enjoyed in many ways. At ski areas you may see people using alpine, snowboard, telemark, cross country or other specialized equipment, such as that used by disabled or other skiers. Regardless of  how you decide to enjoy the slopes, always show courtesy to others and be aware that there are elements of risk in skiing that common sense and personal awareness can help reduce. Observe the code listed below and share with others the responsibility for a great skiing experience.

1. Always stay in control and be able to stop or avoid other people or objects.

2. People ahead of you have the right of way. It is your responsibility to avoid them.

3. You must not stop where you obstruct a trail, or are not visible from above.

4. Whenever starting downhill or merging into a trail, look uphill and yield to others.

5. Always use devices to help prevent runaway equipment.

6. Observe all posted signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.

7. Prior to using any lift, you must have the knowledge and ability to load, ride and unload safely.

It is your responsibility as a skier or snowboarder to know and follow these safety guidelines. This is a partial list. Be safety conscious.
Officially Endorsed by: National Ski Areas Association

Helmets
As helmets grow in popularity it’s important to know their benefits as well as limitations. Helmets are avaialable for purchase in our Ski & Board Shop or a daily helmet rental is also available. For more information, please visit the Lids on Kids website. Swiss Valley does not require skiers & snowboarders to wear helmets unless competeing in certain competitions in which the rules will state their requirement. Swiss Valley Encourages all skiers and riders to enjoy the slopes with a safety conscious attitude, so we can all enjoy winter recreation safely.

Michigan Dept. of Labor Ski Area And Safety Board General Rules R 408.97 Skier, spectator, and public conduct in ski areas.

A) A person unloading from a ski lift shall move immediately out of the unloading area.

B) A person shall not willfully board or embark upon, or disembark from a ski lift, except at an area designated for this purpose.

C) A person shall conduct him/her self within the limits of his/her individual ability and shall not act or ski in a manner that may contribute to his/her injury or that of any other person.

D) A person shall not do any act which interferes with the running or operation of a ski lift such as, but not limited to: Swinging or bouncing on an aerial lift, attempting to contact supporting towers, machinery, guides, or guards while riding on a ski lift; or skiing out of the designated track on a surface lift or tow.

E) A person shall not ski in an area that is designated as closed, nor shall a person remove any sign used to designate a closed area.

F) A person involved in an accident causing injury to him/her self or others shall immediately notify the ski patrol, the ski area operator, or the area manager and shall clearly identify him/her self.

G) A skier shall maintain control of his/her speed and course at all times and shall stay clear of any snow grooming equipment, any vehicle, any lift tower, any other persons, or any other equipment at a ski area.

Acts 199 of Public Acts of 1962, Section 20

ANY PERSON WHO VIOLATES ANY PROVISION OF THE ACT, OR RULE, IS GUILTY OF A MISDEMEANOR! BE SAFETY CONSCIOUS!