Top Tips For Ski Safety This Year

<p>Chemmy Alcott, one of the UK’s top skiing hopefuls heading to the Winter Olympic Games in Sochi discusses her top ski Christmas gift ideas and why safety on the slopes is vital.</p> <p>by Chemmy Alcott | 11th December 2013</p><p></p><p> </p> <p><img src="http://www.thegayuk.com/communities/8/004/009/928/388/images/4603099081.jpg" width="460" height="377" alt="Chemmy Alcott" title="Chemmy Alcott"/></p> <p></p><p>The ski season is nearly upon us and as I’m getting ready for the 2014 Olympic Winter Games, safety on the slopes is a top priority.</p><p></p><p>Recent research from Columbus Direct has found that half of Brits (50%) do not carry any safety gear at all while skiing or snowboarding and that it could cost up to £40,000 to get rescued from the ski slopes. Carrying the right equipment could be the difference between coming down the slope on your own after a fall or having to be lifted off the side of the mountain… </p><p></p><p>With Christmas just around the corner, it is the perfect time to give your loved ones a present that will keep them safe while they enjoy their time on or off piste.</p><p></p><p>Here are my top five Christmas gift ideas:</p><p></p><p>Helmet – You should always wear a helmet when involved in any snow sports! It surprises me how many people take the risk and do not wear helmets, in fact according to Columbus Direct only 20% of Brits would wear a helmet on the slopes if their insurer insisted. There are so many different designs to choose from which make a style statement and more importantly protect against head injuries, so there is no excuse not to wear a helmet.</p><p></p><p>Transceiver – for the adventurous skiers out there who like to go off piste, a transceiver is essential in the event of an avalanche. It uses advanced technology to offer the best chance of rapidly locating you if you get lost.</p><p></p><p>Wrist guard gloves/mitts – not only do these keep you warm but they also protect wrists, perfect for beginners and snowboarders.</p><p></p><p>ABS airbag – for serious off-piste skiers this will help save lives - with the pull of an activation handle, airbags are deployed to help keep you at the top of a moving avalanche.</p><p></p><p>Ski goggles –another excellent gift, protecting eyes from UV rays, sun glare from the snow and giving a wider field of vision to ensure you take in all the beautiful scenery whilst heading down the mountain</p><p></p><p></p><p>Remember to also ensure that you and your loved ones have the right winter sports insurance. I have recently recovered from my third leg break of my career so I know how dangerous it can be. Winter sports enthusiasts enjoy the adrenaline rush that the sport can deliver but there is a greater accident risk on the slopes than on the beach which is why travel insurance is so important, even for the fittest skiers.</p><p></p><p>Columbus Direct also offer additional cover for off-piste skiing and snowboarding as long as it is within resort boundaries and can even cover more adventurous activities such as heli-skiing, snowcat skiing and snow parks. Stay safe and enjoy your time on the slopes this ski season!</p><p></p><p></p><p> </p>