MOUNTAIN ENVIRONMENT

Altitude:

Steamboat is located 6,900 feet (2,103 meters) above sea level and rises to more than 10,000 feet (3,220 meters). Some guests may experience a headache, touch of nausea, fatigue or shortness of breath. These are symptoms of altitude illness and generally disappear within 48 hours. Altitude illness is almost totally preventable and can be significantly minimized by following these simple guidelines-exercise in moderation the first few days; drink more water than usual; reduce alcohol intake, which has a greater effect at this altitude; eat food high in carbohydrates: grains, pasta,fruits and vegetables; and, avoid salty foods.

Altitude illness is usually a minor problem; however, if symptoms persist or if you have concern about your health, you should seek medical attention.

The Yampa Valley Medical Center (970-879-1322) provides care 24 hours a day including emergency services, labs, respiratory therapy, family practice, sports medicine and more. www.yvmc.org

Clothing:

Staying warm and comfortable on the slopes is easy. The best clothing choice is water-resistant, layered clothing which can be removed or added with weather changes. If your clothes are not water-resistant, a water-repellent spray can be applied. Also, ultraviolet rays are more powerful at Steamboat's elevation. A good pair of goggles or sunglasses that not only cut glare but also filter the ultraviolet rays is strongly recommended.

Ultraviolet Rays:

Regardless of your skin color or complexion, everyone needs to wear a protective sunscreen even on overcast days when ultraviolet rays can penetrate cloud cover. Remember, Steamboat's weather can change day-to-day or even hour-to-hour, so be prepared for any type of weather condition.

COLLISIONS & CLOSURES

Collisions:

Colorado Law requires that you give your name to a resort employee before you leave the vicinity if you are involved in a collision resulting in an injury. Witnesses are also encouraged to contact a resort employee.

Closures:

It is your responsibility to know what runs are open and closed. Skiing or riding on a closed run is also illegal and you could be fined up to $1,000. A closure may consist as simply as just a closed sign or could be a mixture of signage, ropes, or other material.

LIFT INFORMATION & EMERGENCY MESSAGES

If unfamiliar with the lift or wish the lift slowed or stopped, please notify the operator for assistance. Never jump from a lift. If your lift stops for a prolonged period, remain seated; you will be contacted by the patrol. Opening & closing times are subject to change without notice.

Note:
--All lifts will operate when rider traffic demand and openings/closing times are subject to change without notice.
--Spring lift hours for the 2009/10 season go into effect in March

EMERGENCY & KIDS' MESSAGES

Emergency message boards are provided at the top and bottom of all lifts. These boards provide a link to guests should something happen, such as a lost child or accident, and require an immediate response. The board will inform you where to call for further details. If you have kids in a clinic or on their own, it is a good idea to check the board each time you ride the lift. To send an emergency message, contact the patrol at 970-871-5911.

HELMET USAGE

Steamboat recommends wearing helmets for skiing and riding. Skiers and snowboarders are encouraged to educate themselves on the benefits and limitations of helmet usage. The primary safety consideration, and obligation under Your Responsibility Code, is to ski and ride in a controlled and responsible manner.

Helmets are available for purchase and rental at many locations including Steamboat Ski & Sport and the Kids' Vacation Center. Steamboat supports the National Ski Areas Association's Lids on Kids initiative:

www.lidsonkids.org

SKI AREA BOUNDARY/BACKCOUNTRY ACCESS

Areas beyond the ski area boundary are not patrolled or maintained; avalanche and other hazards exist. Access to public lands outside the boundary is provided through marked access points. Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation assumes no responsibility for the safety and welfare of skiers going beyond the ski area boundary. Rescue in the backcountry is the responsibility of the Routt County Sheriff's Office. If available, rescue is costly and may be very slow.

The resort strongly urges those venturing into the backcountry to know your limits and to be prepared for any set ofcircumstances.

Backcountry terrain is rugged and has not had any sort of preventative avalanche control work performed. This risk, along with the other hazards - large cliffs, obstacles, changing snow conditions, tree wells, etc. - requires respect, knowledge and preparation. Before heading into the backcountry-be prepared & let someone know where you are going and when you should be back.

10 must have items for backcountry travel

1. Backcountry shovel,
2. Avalanche probe (extended),
3. Backpack,
4. Avalanche probe (folded),
5. Extra dry gloves and a flashlight,
6. Water,
7. First aid kit,
8. Avalanche transceiver,
9. Extra dry hat,
10. Food that is high in energy

Should you need help, rescue in the backcountry is coordinated through the Routt County Sheriff's Office and may be costly and very slow.

You should realize that your actions affect not just yourself, but also every other member of your party and potentially any other winter enthusiast who may be required to help in the case of an accident. If you feel something is above your ability level, it is your responsibility to make the wise judgment and inform your group.