When two students ski too close around a ledge, what is an appropriate action?

• A. Tell them to speed up to clear the area
• B. Ignore for now; they'll figure it out
• C. Move them to a spot below the ledge, out of traffic, and have them discuss safer spacing
• D. Call a halt to the lesson and exit the area

Answer: (C)

Safety and risk management in a ski lesson rely on actively keeping students out of high-traffic zones and maintaining clear spacing. When two skiers are too close around a ledge, the best move is to reposition them to a location below the ledge where they’re out of the crowd and can safely regroup. This reduces the immediate risk of collision or catching an edge, and it creates a calm space for the students to reflect on why spacing matters.

Having them discuss safer spacing in that safe spot reinforces the behavior you want—recognizing hazards, communicating intentions, and maintaining appropriate distance as they navigate features. It’s a practical, hands-on way to translate the lesson into safer, repeatable habits.

Telling them to speed up increases risk by reducing reaction time near a hazardous feature. Ignoring the hazard lets it persist and invites an incident. Halting the lesson and exiting the area is a heavier disruption that’s not necessary if you can quickly reposition and brief them in a safer zone.