People taking ski and snowboard holidays are going away “seriously unprepared”, independent consumer organisation HolidayTravelWatch claims.
Almost two-thirds (64%) say reports of high profile celebrity accidents had made them think and they were now more cautious.
However, despite an awareness of the heightened risk of personal injury, 16% failed to take out travel insurance and almost a quarter (22%) did not realise they needed winter sports cover to be properly protected, a poll found.
The HolidayTravelWatch survey also revealed that while a quarter of people were disappointed with the ski school instruction they received, more than half did not know about the International Ski Instructors Alliance and the British Association of Snowsport Instructors and their standard requirements for instructors.
Winter sports holidaymakers were also vague about rules and regulations, such as the requirement to obey speed limits on the slopes – restrictions are common throughout Europe – because travelling at high speed puts you at risk of prosecution, and if you injure someone you are classed as being entirely to blame.
HolidayTravelWatch consumer director Frank Brehany said: “People tell us they are aware of the potential dangers, so we’re surprised they still go away seriously underprepared, without knowing the rules of the slopes or ensuring they have appropriate protective equipment and, in particular, without taking out adequate travel insurance.”
Fully comprehensive travel insurance is essential, according to the organisation. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) does not provide sufficient cover for medical bills or repatriation and does not cover against personal liability claims.
Brehany added: “Snow sports holidays should be about having a good time, so don’t put up with poor standards, either on the slopes or at your resort accommodation.
“If you’re concerned about safety, especially something that could affect other skiers or snowboarders, report the issue to your tour operator or rep and give them the opportunity to put things right.
“If they fail to act, take photographs or videos and note down the names and addresses of fellow holidaymakers and their experiences, as this can be used as evidence if you subsequently decide to make a formal complaint.”