Blog

January Snow Safety Month at Giants Ridge

Date: January 2, 2026
Category: Blog

Safety at Giants Ridge is a shared responsibility built into every run, every lift ride, and every decision made on the mountain. This January, we are bringing that commitment to the forefront with January Snow Safety Month, a month long focus on helping every guest ski and ride smarter, safer, and with greater confidence.

Each week throughout January, we will highlight one key safety message through on mountain activations, conversations with our team, and practical tips you can use every day on the slopes. From understanding the Responsibility Code to improving terrain awareness and knowing how to get help when you need it, each week builds on the last to create a safer mountain experience for everyone.

Week One begins with the foundation of it all: Know and Obey the Responsibility Code.


Giants Ridge January Snow Safety Month Responsibility Code

Week One Focus: Know and Obey the Responsibility Code

Skiing and snowboarding can be enjoyed in many different ways. On any given day at Giants Ridge, you may see alpine skiers, snowboarders, telemark skiers, cross country skiers, adaptive athletes, and more all sharing the same mountain.

No matter how you choose to enjoy the slopes, the NSAA Responsibility Code applies to everyone.

The Responsibility Code is your guide to making smart, predictable decisions every run. It sets clear expectations that help prevent collisions, reduce close calls, and keep traffic flowing safely across the mountain.

The Responsibility Code

  • Always stay in control. You must be able to stop or avoid people or objects.
  • People ahead or downhill of you have the right of way. You must avoid them.
  • Stop only where you are visible from above and do not restrict traffic.
  • Look uphill and avoid others before starting downhill or entering a trail.
  • You must prevent runaway equipment.
  • Read and obey all signs, warnings, and hazard markings.
  • Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
  • You must know how and be able to load, ride, and unload lifts safely. If you need assistance, ask the lift attendant.
  • Do not use lifts or terrain when impaired by alcohol or drugs.
  • If you are involved in a collision or incident, share your contact information with each other and a ski area employee.

Why the Code Matters

Most incidents on the mountain are preventable. Staying in control, yielding to downhill traffic, stopping in visible areas, and looking uphill before merging are simple actions that make a significant difference, especially on busy days.

When everyone understands and follows the Responsibility Code:

  • Traffic flows more smoothly
  • Close calls are reduced
  • Patrol can respond more efficiently when needed
  • Guests of all abilities can enjoy the mountain with confidence

Safety is not about limiting fun. It is about protecting it.


Join Us on the Mountain

Every Saturday in January, stop by the Giants Ridge Safety Kiosk on the patio of the main chalet and connect with our Patrol team. Ask questions, learn more about the Responsibility Code, enjoy a free cup of hot chocolate, and see how small choices on the mountain can make a big difference.

January Snow Safety Month is about progress, awareness, and shared responsibility. It starts with knowing the Code and continues with every decision you make on the hill.

Know it. Obey it. Ski like a GIANT.