As much as skiing and après-ski celebrations go hand in hand, skiers are being urged to think twice before mixing alcohol with their time on the slopes. Recent findings in Austria—a hotspot for vibrant après-ski scenes—have highlighted the dangers of skiing under the influence, proving that even a small amount of alcohol can impair judgment and put lives at risk.
The Risks of Drinking and Skiing
A survey conducted by the Austrian Road Safety Board (KFV) across several ski resorts revealed alarming statistics. Out of 600 skiers tested, one in five had consumed alcohol while on the slopes. Alarmingly, nearly one-third of those skiers would have been over the legal limit to drive. These numbers underscore a troubling trend that has already contributed to tragic outcomes. By February 24, 27 people had lost their lives in skiing accidents involving others this season (up from 19 deaths during the same period last year).
“People greatly underestimate the likelihood of an accident when combining skiing and drinking,” says Alexandra Kuehnelt-Leddihn from the KFV.
Even minimal alcohol consumption can significantly impact a skier’s reaction times, coordination, and ability to judge speed and distance, all critical factors for safe skiing.
Who’s Most at Risk?
The survey identified young adults as the biggest culprits of drinking on the slopes, with 26% of skiers aged 15-24 admitting to consuming alcohol. For skiers aged 25-49, 24% had been drinking, and the percentage dropped significantly to just 7% among those over 50. Unsurprisingly, men were found to be more likely than women to hit the slopes after a drink.
While alcohol might seem like an easy way to enhance the après-ski experience, it poses significant risks—not only to the drinker but also to everyone else sharing the slopes.
“People skiing under the influence of alcohol pose an increased risk to themselves and others,” Kuehnelt-Leddihn warns.
Real-Life Consequences
Alcohol-related dangers don’t stop on the slopes. Beyond the increased risk of collisions and injuries, poor decision-making can lead to further tragic consequences. A stark reminder came when the body of a 26-year-old British man was discovered in La Plagne. The man had tried to take a shortcut home after a night of heavy drinking, only to tragically end up in a stream.
These incidents serve as sobering reminders of the potential fallout from mixing alcohol with winter sports. Skiing is inherently risky, and adding alcohol to the mix only amplifies the dangers.
Staying Safe on the Slopes
Skiing is one of the most exhilarating winter sports, but safety should always come first. Here are some tips to ensure your time on the slopes is memorable for the right reasons:
- Save the celebratory cocktails for après-ski once you’ve safely made it down the mountain.
- Drinking water will keep you alert and energized, reducing the temptation to turn to alcohol.
- Even during après-ski, moderate your intake to stay safe and clear-headed for the next day’s adventures.
The slopes are for skiing; the bars are for celebrating afterward. By keeping alcohol off the mountain, you’ll not only protect yourself but also create a safer environment for everyone around you.