On Saturday, the Snow Angel Foundation kicked off its 'Safety Month Tour' at Solitude Mountain Resort in Big Cottonwood Canyon, marking the second stop in a nationwide initiative aimed at enhancing ski safety awareness among winter sports enthusiasts. The event attracted a diverse crowd, including families, seasoned skiers, and local safety advocates, all eager to learn about skiing safely and responsibly. The foundation, known for its commitment to promoting safety in outdoor activities, has partnered with various ski resorts across the country to deliver crucial information and resources to skiers and snowboarders. The day began with an engaging presentation by representatives from the Snow Angel Foundation, who emphasized the importance of safety on the slopes. 'Our mission is to educate skiers and snowboarders about the potential dangers they face and how to mitigate those risks,' said Sarah Thompson, Executive Director of the Snow Angel Foundation. 'We want everyone to enjoy their time on the mountain while prioritizing safety. It's essential that all participants understand the rules of the slopes and the importance of being aware of their surroundings.' Participants were introduced to a variety of safety measures, including the 'Skier Responsibility Code,' which outlines the fundamental rules of conduct for individuals on the slopes. This code stresses the importance of yielding to others, remaining in control, and being aware of one's surroundings. Additionally, attendees received information on the significance of wearing helmets and other protective gear, which can significantly reduce the risk of injury. The event also included interactive demonstrations, where attendees could practice safe skiing techniques and learn how to respond in emergency situations. Local ski instructors volunteered their time to guide participants through the drills, ensuring that skiers of all levels could benefit from the hands-on experience. 'It's all about building confidence and skills on the mountain,' said Mark Jensen, a ski instructor at Solitude Mountain Resort. 'The more prepared you are, the safer you will be.' As part of the tour, the Snow Angel Foundation aims to reach a broader audience by partnering with ski resorts across the nation. Their next stop will be at Park City Mountain Resort, where they plan to continue spreading awareness about ski safety. 'We’re excited to take this message to different communities,' Thompson added. 'Each resort presents its own unique set of challenges, and we want to tailor our approach to meet those needs.' The Snow Angel Foundation was established in response to a growing concern about the number of skiing and snowboarding accidents that occur each year. According to data from the National Ski Areas Association, there were over 38 million skier and snowboarder visits to U.S. ski areas last season, with nearly 600 reported accidents resulting in serious injuries. The foundation’s initiative is partly a response to these statistics, aiming to reduce the number of incidents through education and awareness. In addition to their safety initiatives, the foundation is also committed to providing resources for those affected by skiing accidents. They offer support for families dealing with injuries and help to connect them with rehabilitation resources. 'It's crucial that we not only focus on prevention but also provide support for those who have been impacted by skiing accidents,' Thompson noted. Attendees of the event expressed appreciation for the foundation's efforts. Local skier Emily Carr, who brought her two children to the event, said, 'It's important for us to understand how to ski safely, especially with kids on the slopes. I want them to enjoy skiing, but I also want them to be safe.' As the day wrapped up, the Snow Angel Foundation encouraged participants to share what they learned with friends and family, emphasizing that ski safety is a community effort. In addition to the practical lessons learned, the event fostered a sense of camaraderie among attendees, all united by their love for winter sports and a commitment to ensuring a safe experience for everyone on the mountain. Looking ahead, the Snow Angel Foundation plans to continue its tour throughout the ski season, with a goal of reaching as many skiers and snowboarders as possible. 'Safety should always come first, no matter your skill level. We want everyone to enjoy their time on the slopes while being mindful of their safety and the safety of others,' Thompson concluded. The Snow Angel Foundation's 'Safety Month Tour' represents a significant step towards fostering a culture of safety in winter sports, one slope at a time. As skiing continues to be a popular pastime in Utah and beyond, initiatives like this can play a vital role in reducing accidents and ensuring that winter sports remain enjoyable for generations to come.