Elderly skiers most likely to travel without correct insurance
A third of all holidaymakers don’t check whether they have the correct insurance for winter sports, including skiing and snowboarding, new research reveals.
And the over 65s are the ones most likely to travel without appropriate cover, according to the research from ABTA, working in partnership with the Foreign Office.
It found that 55% of the older age group fail to check if they’re covered for winter sports before they hit the slopes – well above the 31% average.
The research of more than 600 holidaymakers found those aged 25 to 34 were the most safety-conscious, with 76% checking they had suitable insurance.
Over the past three years, 45 Britons have died on a ski or snowboard holiday, according to the Foreign Office, and thousands more have suffered injuries on and off the slopes.
To help raise awareness of the importance of being prepared, the Foreign Office has teamed up with ABTA and former British Olympic skier Chemmy Alcott t provide tips from pre-departure to après ski.
ABTA chief executive Mark Tanzer said: "As we look forward to the winter sports season, we are urging holidaymakers to be aware of the potential risks of such activities. Along with following safety advice, we would also advise anyone planning a winter sports holiday to ensure that they have appropriate insurance in place.
"Unfortunately accidents can happen and can lead to costly medical bills, but having the right kind of cover means people can make the most of their time on the slopes without having to worry."
Chemmy Alcott’s top ten tips are:
Pre-departure
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Take out comprehensive travel insurance with winter sports cover and check what it covers
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If heading to Europe, travel with a free European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to get free necessary treatment at public hospitals
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Make sure your passport is valid before you travel
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Check the FCO’s travel advice for the country you are visiting
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Keep up to date with the local weather conditions before you go and while you’re in resort
In resort
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Stick with your mates when walking back to your hotel or chalet and follow the signed paths
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Only ski off-piste if you are a confident skier, aware of the risks and are with a qualified guide
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Wear a helmet
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Remember the effects of drinking alcohol increase at altitude – your judgment, coordination and reaction times may be affected
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Make sure you and your friends know that in an emergency, the number to call is 112 in Europe and 911 in USA
ABTA has advice for people heading on a winter sports holiday at http://abta.com/news-and-views/campaign-zone/winter-sports-tips
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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