Many of us will be hitting the slopes again this year, whether a local or on an extended trip.
Experienced skiers and snow boarders know all about the dangers involved, and know how to enjoy themselves safely - do you? The snowfields are great fun, but if you're a newbie, take some advice - this could save your life! I can't stress enough, you need to be able to stay warm.
If you're just doing the short downhills you probably wont freeze, but what about the cross country haul? Even a relatively short one can go wrong.
All it takes is a twisted ankle or a broken boot lock.
Are you prepared to sit out for half an hour? Or an hour or maybe more? Guys, you need to have the right gear.
It doesn't have to be the newest or most expensive, but it needs to be serviceable.
Windproof tops and bottoms, and don't forget the thermal underwear.
If you have never worn thermal undies, you're missing out - there is a good reason elite athletes and adventurers wear them; they are able to trap a vast proportion of your body heat before it escapes.
Thermal undies are probably the single best investment a skier can make - apart from a ski pass maybe.
How far are you going? If you will be more than 30 minutes on you run, take a snack.
You want something easy to eat that will give you a boost, but don't be sucked in by fancy expensive gimmicks.
There are products out there in the form of gels and "shots".
I've tried these and honestly all they usually are is sugar and caffeine.
You get a quick hit and feel terrible an hour later.
Much better to poke a few muesli bars in your pocket.
They are cheap, and will give you lasting energy.
I usually work on 2 bars for every hour of the trip.
Lastly, here's an easy one that unfortunately gets forgotten and has caused tragedies: Look at the weather.
Then look at the sky.
Does it look dark or ominous? If so, it probably is a bad sign.
Don't let it ruin your day, you can still have fun but stay local and do your cross country trip tomorrow instead.