CLOTHING cont.
It is important to wear a woollen hat as significant amounts of body heat is lost from the head. Woollen socks and gloves or mittens should also be worn. On wet days, large rubber dishwashing gloves over woollen gloves help to keep hands warm and dry.

Skin and Eye Protection
Sunburn can be a serious problem, even on cloudy days. In addition to protective clothing, always use a good sunscreen with a high SPF (sun protection factor) to protect skin exposed to direct or reflected sunlight. To protect your eyes from the glare off the snow (which can lead to ‘snow blindness’) the use of high quality sunglasses or goggles is essential. On sunny days if you are not wearing a helmet, a peaked or wide brimmed hat is advisable.

If you are dependent on spectacles, carry a spare pair, in case you lose or damage your glasses while you are in the alps.
   Appropriate Footwear
Alpine conditions create snow and ice often making walking difficult and slippery. It is essential to wear appropriate footwear with soles having substantial grip.

Helmets
Helmets may make a difference in reducing or preventing head injuries. Many skiers and snowboarders are choosing to wear them. However, helmets do have limits and users need to be aware that wearing a helmet does not eliminate the risk of head injury. In addition to offering an added degree of protection, snow sports helmets are now designed to be lightweight, comfortable, warm & fashionable.
 

Alcohol & Drugs are fuel for disaster in the snow, they impair your judgement and your ability. Your reaction times are significantly reduced and increase the risk of injury. The whole alpine experience begins when you leave home and doesn’t finish until you return. Avoid alcohol consumption and the use of illegal substances, because they increase your risk of hypothermia.

Alcohol & Drugs impair judgement, slow response time and reduce your ability to respond to an emergency.