Safety tips for those wanting to enjoy the winter outdoors

SALT LAKE CITY — As Utah enters the winter season, the Utah Office of Tourism is offering outdoor enthusiasts three safety tips. The tips are meant to serve as a way to plan and prepare, while also having fun in the snow.

Use caution on the road

During the winter months, roads can become slick and make for hazardous traveling conditions. The UOT recommends that those planning road trips understand what kind of weather conditions they may be dealing with before heading out. 

Conditions can change, and it’s vital that motorists travel at a speed that is appropriate for the weather conditions. If you are heading up into the mountains, chains may be required, so plan accordingly. 

Additionally, the UOT also recommends that an emergency kit be stored in your vehicle.

Carpooling during winter is a good safety tip

Traffic in the canyons during the winter months can often be less than ideal. The UOT recommends carpooling to the ski resorts with friends. Additionally, idling vehicles only contribute negatively to air quality.

On Dec. 11, those wishing to get to the ski resorts can utilize UTA ski bus. UTA has park-and-ride spots at various spots around the Salt Lake Valley.

Practice safety on the slopes

The UOT says in order to have the best time possible, individuals need to be sure to use the best safety practices possible.

If it is your first time on the slopes, UOT suggests that you should take a lesson first. First-time skiers have lots of options at their disposal at each of the state’s 15 ski resorts.

If you are an experienced skier and have a desire to try some backcountry skiing, the UOT warns of the dangers of avalanches. Such skiers need to understand the risks before heading out.

Information on avalanche danger around the state can be found here. 

Read more:

• Keep these things in your car in case of emergency
• You’re trapped in a blizzard. Do you know what to do next to survive?

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