SAFE Tobogganing

Tips and advice for your safety on the mountain

In addition to an unforgettable tobogganing experience, safety is the top priority. For this reason, it is very important to follow instructions, adhere to rules of behaviour and use appropriate equipment.

Tobogganing is fun, but it also harbours risks! Learn how to enjoy this winter activity safely.

10 Recommendations of the ÖAVDifficulty classificationsWhat to do in an emergency?

Considerate co-operation

Behave in such a way that you do not endanger or harm others. The following also applies when tobogganing: Provide first aid and identify yourself in the event of an accident.

Respect the instructions

Make sure that the route is open for tobogganing. Find out about the course and condition of the toboggan run.

Equipment checklist

- Quality sledge
- safety helmet
- Sturdy boots/high mountain boots with a good tread sole
- Ski trousers or waterproof trousers
- gaiters if necessary
- ski goggles
- Headlamp if necessary
- gloves

For safety reasons, please do NOT use plastic bobs or plastic bases.

Ascend carefully

Only cross the toboggan run in clear places.

Appropriate riding style

Adapt your speed and riding style to your ability, the toboggan run, the snow, ice and weather conditions and the density of traffic.

Give warning signals

Warn inattentive climbers (bells, loud shouting).
In the dark: headlamp and reflective clothing.

Wait for each other

Make sure that your group is complete. Stop in narrow and confusing places.

Use the toboggan run

The risk of collision with skiers is high. At night, frozen toboggan tracks impair the quality of the piste.

Dogs not allowed

Dogs are difficult to lead on the ascent and descent, as there is a high risk of collision with those travelling down the usually narrow toboggan runs.

Tobogganing sober

Addictive substances impair the ability to react and reduce the correct assessment of danger.

A group of people sledding down a snow-covered hillside, surrounded by trees, in the Wilder Kaiser region of Tirol. They are dressed in winter gear.

Equipment

  • Sturdy boots/high mountain boots with a good tread sole
  • Ski trousers or waterproof trousers
  • gaiters if necessary
  • Helmet
  • Ski goggles
  • Headlamp if necessary
  • Gloves

Difficulty classifications

Easy toboggan runA toboggan run classified as easy is also suitable for beginners and children. It has a maximum gradient of no more than 14%; an average gradient of up to 10%; curves with a radius of at least 8 metres and no icing.
Natural toboggan run of medium difficultyA natural toboggan run of medium difficulty has a maximum gradient of no more than 18%, an average gradient of up to 12%, curves with a radius of at least 6 metres and no icing.
Difficult natural toboggan run Difficult natural toboggan runs may only be used by trained and experienced tobogganists. It has a maximum gradient of over 18%, an average gradient of over 12%, bends with a radius of less than 6 metres and no icing.
Gelber Rettungshubschrauber fliegt vor blauem Himmel über felsigem Bergmassiv in den Alpen. Österreichische Flagge am Heck des Helikopters sichtbar.
What to do in an emergency?
Safety in the mountains is the be-all and end-all in the mountains. Time and again, mountain sports enthusiasts are surprised or injured by a sudden thunderstorm or other forces of nature and are spontaneously faced with the question: "What is the Alpine emergency number?"
Read more

Please note that the information provided on safety on the mountain is exclusively recommendations from the Wilder Kaiser Tourist Board. All information is subject to change without notice.