[Photo: Ben Blackenberg, Keystone]

Up in the mountains the weather is not just a topic of conversation. On it depend your comfort, enjoyment and, most importantly, your safety.

Conditions can change rapidly, and are difficult for those not familiar with the area to predict. Check the weather forecast each day before setting out, so you know what to expect and how to dress. It is usually posted outside the local tourist bureau, and read out on local radio several times each morning.

If in doubt about what to wear, put on an extra layer and take a back-pack, so you can strip off if you get too hot. It is better to be too warm than too cold.

Tips

• Clear nights are invariably followed by cold mornings.
• Moderate wind in the resort means high winds at altitude.
• Ultra-violet light can penetrate thin cloud cover, so always protect your skin.
• When it is snowing, visibility above the tree line will be minimal

Skiing In A White-Out

[Photo: ifyouski.com]

Many skiers give up at this point, retreating to the cafe to await better weather. But skiing in these conditions can be fun, as long as you take the necessary precautions

• Stay below the tree line (where there is some contrast) or stick to slopes you know well.
• Ski in a group and remain in visual contact with the skier in front.
• Ski from one piste marker to the next.
• Adopt a wide stance, neutrally weighted over your feet, ready to react quickly to the terrain.
• Concentrate on the feelings in your feet: they are in closest contact with the snow.