That's La Plagne
Ski Safety Apps: How to Keep in Touch on the Slopes
As someone who's made the snowy slopes of La Plagne not just a hobby but a home, I've learned a thing or two about the challenges and joys of skiing with family. One of the biggest concerns for parents is ensuring that everyone stays connected and safe, no matter their level of ski expertise or familiarity with the resort. Whether you're carving down the familiar runs of your home resort or, exploring new snowy terrains elsewhere, here's my guide full of practical tips from ski professionals and locals to keep your family in touch and safe on the slopes.
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Navigating the Resort with Confidence
The layout of a ski resort can be complex and intimidating for both newcomers and seasoned visitors. La Plagne, like most ski resorts, offers a variety of runs suited for every level, but the key to enjoying this diversity safely is knowing how to navigate it.
The Piste X Code is not just about rules; it's a framework for making the mountain safer and more enjoyable for everyone. It emphasises the importance of staying in control, giving right of way, and being mindful of signs and markings.
Before you set off, take some time to familiarise yourself with the resort's map. Highlight key features like family-friendly zones, ski lifts, and restaurants. This knowledge not only helps in planning your day but also serves as a vital tool in staying connected. Agree on specific, easy-to-find meeting points for different times of the day, considering everyone's skill levels and interests.
Effective Communication Strategies
Communication on the slopes goes beyond mere check-ins; it's about ensuring everyone feels confident and included in the day's plans. When everyone, from the littlest member to the most experienced skier, knows the plan, it creates a smoother and more enjoyable experience for all. Discuss the day's itinerary over breakfast, setting clear expectations and rendezvous points.
In addition to traditional methods like walkie-talkies, consider innovative solutions like smartwatches designed for kids, which allow for simple calls and location tracking without the need for a smartphone.
Leveraging Technology on the Slopes
In an age where technology touches almost every aspect of our lives, it's no surprise that it can enhance our skiing experience too. Here's how specific apps can help keep your family connected on the slopes:
- Snoww: Track your runs and compete with friends while sharing your location on the slopes. Check out the Snoww app here.
- Slopes: Offers detailed tracking of your ski days, including speed and elevation, with location-sharing features. Find out more about Slopes here.
- Life360: A family locator app that provides real-time location sharing and communication tools. Find out more about Life360 here.
- Ski Tracks: Ideal for tracking your entire ski day, this app records your speed, distance, and routes. Read about Ski Tracks here.
- Strava: Known for tracking cycling and running, Strava also works for skiing, allowing you to share your activities with friends. Discover Strava here.
- Apple Find My Friends / AirTags: Use Find My Friends for location sharing among Apple users, and attach AirTags to your ski gear to keep track of it.
Planning for a Smooth Ski Experience
A successful ski trip starts long before you hit the slopes. It begins with choosing the right gear, ensuring everyone is dressed warmly and comfortably and extends to making sure all devices are charged and equipped with the necessary apps and contacts. Discuss and set ground rules for device use on the slopes to ensure that technology aids rather than distracts from the day’s enjoyment.
Additionally, consider enrolling in ski lessons tailored to different family members' skill levels. Not only does this improve technique, but it also provides a structured environment where kids can learn the importance of staying together and checking in regularly.
Prioritising Safety on the Slopes
Safety is paramount, and beyond the basic rules of the Piste X Code, personal preparedness plays a huge role. Ensure that every family member has a safety card with contact information and any relevant medical details. Teach your children basic safety protocols, like what to do if they find themselves alone or in need of help.
Reinforce the importance of skiing within their limits and understanding the colour-coded run classifications, encouraging them to make smart choices about which trails to tackle based on their abilities.
Staying Connected Through Social Media
While the focus is on skiing, social media can play a supportive role in keeping families connected. Sharing updates, photos, and locations through a private family group not only keeps everyone informed but also captures the memories of your trip in real time. It’s a digital scrapbook of your adventure that you’ll cherish long after you’ve left the slopes.
That's La Plagne & Keeping in Touch on the Slopes
With thorough preparation, the right use of technology, and a commitment to safety, skiing as a family can be an incredibly rewarding experience. These tips and apps aim to help you have fun with your family & stay safe on the ski slopes. Ensuring that everyone from the youngest to the oldest member of your family feels confident, connected, and safe on their skis.
If you want some more help keeping your ski kids safe, check out these popular articles:
- 10 tips for keeping kids safe on their skis
- 5 common mistakes ski parents should avoid with their kids
See you on the slopes!
