Safe skiing and snowboarding code (according to ORDINANCE for categorizing of the ski trails – adopted with Resolution No13 of the Council of Ministers from 26.01.2015)

The rules apply to all users of ski and snowboard equipment in Borovets resort. Each skier or snowboarder must know and observe them.

All users practicing ski or snowboard must:

1. Be in control, and adapt one’s speed and manner of skiing to one’s ability and the prevailing conditions of terrain, snow and weather, as well as to the density of other skiers; Behave in such a way as not to endanger others or impede other skiers' and snowboarders' progress; Stay in full control of one’s skis or snowboard, so as to be able to change direction or stop if needed; 

2. To slow down when visibility is low, when close to construction sites or obstacles, at crossroads and derivations, foggy weather, high density of people on the slope, at narrow spaces or when beginners ski/snowboard in close proximity;

3. To observe responsible behavior not only on the slopes but also with respect to the good condition of the equipment they use; this also applies when unconventional (modified, prototype etc.) equipment is being used;

4. To observe the following rules when skiing/snowboarding on the slopes:

а) those ahead have right of way; those coming behind must not endanger in any way those ahead and in doing so, must keep safe distance;

b) Make sure that you leave enough room when overtaking others for any voluntary or involuntary movements that they may make. The overtaking skier/snowboarder is fully responsible to move in a manner so as not to endanger the skier/snowboarder ahead; this also applies when stopped skiers/snowboarders are being overtaken;

c) Unless absolutely necessary, you must avoid stopping on the ski run in narrow places or where visibility is restricted and you should move clear of the area as soon as practicable; starting after a stop on a ski run should be done in a safe manner without any risk of collision;

d)  After a fall a skier or snowboarder must move clear of the piste as soon as possible;

e) At crossroads those coming from the right have right of way;

f) A skier or snowboarder either climbing or descending on foot must keep to the side of the piste;

5. You must respect all signals and markings and use only trails which correspond to your technical and physical skills and abilities;

6. Always give way to ski patrol or rescue staff and to the respective transportation means and avoid obstructing their progress;

7. In case of an accident, every skier is duty bound to assist by keeping the injured person safe and by calling the rescue service without delay.

1. Cross country trails are used in one direction only. In exceptional circumstances a two-way use may be permitted provided separation fences and nets.

2. Slower moving skiers must keep to the right side of the trail

3. Right of way must be given whenever request by a skier from behind.

High Altitude Awareness

At above 2000m, altitude illness affects 20-30% of visitors with varying degree. Symptoms include shortness of breath, especially when exercising, faster heart beat rate, nausea, unusual tiredness, headache, or difficulty sleeping. Those with one or more of these symptoms may have Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). If the symptoms do not subside shortly, a doctor should be called. Upon arrival to the mountain resort, take it easy for the first day or two. Drink two-to-three times more water or fluids, than usual. Limit alcohol consumption for the first two or three days and minimize caffeine intake. Limit salty foods and increase carbohydrate consumption. Most importantly, listen to your body. Do not push the limits of your physical capabilities.