British skiers heading to the Alps this January are being warned that a common habit on the slopes could lead to a hefty fine.
As peak ski season continues and resorts become busier, local authorities across Europe are enforcing rules that many holidaymakers do not realise exist.
Under international ski safety rules, skiers must not stop where they block visibility or create a hazard for others.
This habit is causing problems, as many are stopping in the middle of a run or just below blind spots, steep drops or narrow sections.
Alex Dyer, head of customer success at ski holiday company Ski Vertigo, said one of the biggest issues seen each winter is skiers stopping in dangerous places on the slopes.
He said many Brits treat the piste like an open space to pause, chat or take photos or selfies, without understanding the rules that apply.
While it may seem harmless, this behaviour is classed as dangerous in many European ski resorts.
In Italy, these rules are backed by law. Skiers who stop in unsafe places or behave recklessly on the slopes can be fined €100 (£87) or more in Italy and, in some countries, €500 (£434).
As the ski season goes on, many skiers do not realise there are rules to follow or they can land in hot water
In more serious cases, ski passes can be confiscated and police may be involved, particularly if an accident occurs.
Italian authorities tightened enforcement after a rise in collisions on busy pistes during peak season.
Similar rules apply in France, Austria and Switzerland.
Resorts follow the FIS Code of Conduct, which states that skiers must avoid stopping in narrow places or areas with limited visibility. Ski patrols have the power to issue penalties or remove passes if behaviour puts others at risk.
The issue often catches families and groups out. Skiers stop to wait for others, adjust equipment or check phones, without realising they are creating an obstacle.
On busy January slopes, this increases the risk of high-speed collisions, especially in poor visibility or crowded areas.
There have been reports this winter of skiers being fined after causing pile-ups by stopping just below ridge lines or behind bends.
In several cases, those involved said they had no idea fines could be issued for stopping in the wrong place.
Safety when skiing is paramount – and there’s a code of conduct to follow
A spokesperson from Ski Vertigo said many British skiers are surprised to learn that ski resorts operate under strict safety rules similar to road laws.
They warned that accidents caused by unsafe stopping can also affect travel insurance, as some policies may not cover incidents where local rules were ignored.
Beyond fines, skiers may be held responsible for medical costs or rescue fees if someone is injured as a result. In busy resorts, emergency responses can involve helicopters and specialist teams, with costs running into thousands of euros.
Ski schools and resort authorities advise skiers to stop only at the side of the piste, in clear view of others, and well away from narrow or steep sections. If a break is needed, moving to a safe edge or designated rest area reduces risk.
As January travel continues, experts urge skiers to familiarise themselves with local rules before hitting the slopes.
Ski Vertigo advised holidaymakers to ski defensively, choose safe stopping points and remember that what feels like a small decision can carry serious consequences on busy winter pistes.
