Ein verschneiter Berghang in Lech Zürs am Arlberg der optimal für Tiefschneeabfahrten ist

Safety in the mountains

Rules of the piste and mountain rescue services in Lech Zürs

FIS rules of conduct

Acting as a benchmark for sporting conduct for careful and responsible skiers and snowboarders, the FSI rules aim to prevent accidents in organised ski areas. The FIS rules of conduct apply equally to all winter sports fans. Everyone is obliged to know and comply with them. Anyone who causes an accident in breach of these rules may be liable for consequences under civil and criminal law.

 

These short film clips featuring iconic slope daredevils from the 70s, which was filmed in the Arlberg region, illustrate the FIS rules in a humorous way.

Arlberg Safety Card

Your safety guarantee: With the Arlberg Safety Card (ASC) in hand, you are entitled to (subsidiary) compensation for rescue costs after a skiing accident in the ski area organised by Ski Arlberg. This Safety Card is available at the Ski Arlberg ski pass ticket offices.

General rescue service and emergency numbers

  • Rescue centre 144
  • Mountain rescue 140
  • Police 133
  • Euro emergency number 112

 

 

Emergency accident reports

 

Ski accidents can be reported to the ski patrol service by calling +43 5583 2855.

 

After 5 pm please contact the police: +43 5583 2203.

Avalanche conditions

To find out about the latest snow and avalanche conditions, check out the current avalanche report from lawine.at.
 

 

Current avalanche report and winter sports report

 

Stay informed thanks to our internal avalanche and winter sports reports. For detailed and external information, visit the Lawinenleitstelle Vorarlberg (avalanche warning service).

 

 

Weather report

 

Plan your activities with the current weather forecast. Learn more about the latest weather conditions to be safe on the mountain.

 

 

The right equipment for maximum safety in the mountains

 

Using good equipment is crucial for your safety. Learn about the required equipment, i.e. ski helmets and avalanche transceivers, probes, shovels and avalanche backpacks.

 

 

Tour planning: choose safe routes with our tour overview

 

Plan your tours carefully and safely. Discover our tour overview and use external maps for the perfect route.

 

Important aspects of group safety

Small group sizes are preferable. As a rule, the smaller the group, the more flexible you are in organising it.

Make sure that all members of the group have similar skills and experience. Identify a person with strong leadership skills who can make decisions in crisis situations.

Ensure open communication within the group to share concerns and opinions. Decisions should be made democratically. Avoid peer pressure, everyone knows their own limits and these must be respected!

Make sure that all group members are familiar with the emergency plan. Everyone should know how to react in the event of an accident or how to organise themselves in the event of an incident.

Mit Guides unterwegs beim Freeriden am Arlberg

Your guide for safe behaviour and orientation

It is important to understand the meaning of signage on the slope signs. Their instructions will help you find your way safely. It's better to ask too many questions. It is recommended to have a mountain guidebook/brochure or a guide in person to ensure that you adhere to the rules of conduct.

 

 

Directly book a ski instructor/freeride guide

 

Better safe than sorry: a qualified snow sports instructor will not only teach you the right technique, but also proper safety skills and the right way to act on and off the slopes.

 

Directly request a freeride guide here

 

 

Safety checks before embarking on outdoor adventures

 

At the Ski Arlberg ski resort, info points, an avalanche transceiver training area, and offers such as Check-Your-Risk training ensure maximum safety.


Always communicate your location and your intended plans. Always inform your hotel or contact person(s) before going into remote or difficult terrain. A brief message about your route and estimated time of return can be life-saving information in an emergency.

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