At Whitefish Mountain Resort, we do everything we can to help ensure a safe skiing and snowboarding experience. But snow sports involve many inherent risks that we can never eliminate altogether.

That's why we depend on you, our guests, to make smart decisions on the slopes to protect yourselves and those around you. It's also why the National Ski Areas Association, of which we're a part, has dubbed January National Skiing Safety Month and created a wealth of safety education resources.

"Providing educational tools regarding safe skiing and riding techniques and behaviors to our guests is foundational to a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone in our mountain community," said Josh Witt, our risk control manager here at the resort.

Whether you're new to skiing or a seasoned shredder, it's important to be aware of your surroundings, heed all signage and warnings about mountain conditions, and wear a helmet specifically designed for snow sports. Many different circumstances can result in a fall or collision, and there's no good reason to ski without appropriate protective gear.

You should also take some time to read, or reread, Your Responsibility Code, which the NSAA has crafted with decades of ski-industry wisdom. By knowing — and demonstrating — the positive behaviors described in the code, you can help us create a safe and fun environment for all who visit.

Your Responsibility Code

1. Always stay in control. You must be able to stop or avoid people or objects.
2. People ahead or downhill of you have the right of way. You must avoid them.
3. Stop only where you are visible from above and do not restrict traffic.
4. Look uphill and avoid others before starting downhill or entering a trail.
5. You must prevent runaway equipment.
6. Read and obey all signs, warnings and hazard markings.
7. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
8. You must know how and be able to load, ride and unload lifts safely. If you need assistance, ask the lift attendant.
9. Do not use lifts or terrain when impaired by alcohol or drugs.
10. If you are involved in a collision or incident, share your contact information with each other and a ski area employee.

Thank you for following the code!