What is a simple on-snow rescue drill appropriate for CS1 groups?

• A. Practice a 'freeze' drill where everyone stops and stands still.
• B. Practice a 'help a friend up' drill where the instructor guides the helper and the friend to stand and resume skiing safely under supervision.
• C. Have the helper give up and slide down the hill.
• D. Ignore assistance and force the friend to stand.

Answer: (B)

Simple on-snow rescue drills for CS1 groups focus on a safe, quick, repeatable step to help a fallen skier back to standing and back into skiing under supervision. The best choice models a helper guiding the friend to stand and then both resume skiing, with the instructor overseeing the process. This teaches practical peer assistance, clear communication, and basic body mechanics (stable stance, controlled movements) in a low-risk setting on a gentle slope. It also reinforces safety, confidence, and the ability to handle a fall calmly, which are essential for young skiers.

The other options don’t provide a real, safe, and teachable rescue step. A freeze drill doesn’t address getting someone upright or back on skis. Having the helper give up and slide down is unsafe, and forcing a friend to stand ignores safety and cooperation.