If you cut the ends off a soda or beer can and slit the resulting cyclinder open lengthwise, you have a workable splint for a broken pole. The splint can be rolled like a cigar tube for carry. When applied you should secure it with duct or gorilla tape.

When I taught snowboarding, I kept several items on me, but not for survival:

- Mini ratchet screwdriver with a P-0 bit (all snowboards use this size screw)
- 10mm wrench (all snowboard bindings use this size nut)
- A couple bandaids
- Duct tape
- A couple cheapo watches (3 for $5) to give to instructors who were late to bells because they didn't have a watch
- Bandana for wiping goggles and other purposes

In addition, when I rode in the mountains, I brought my typical mini PSK, and a knife.

I've come close to accidently skiing out of bounds, I can easily see where a mistaken turn could get you into trouble fast.

I did not see goggles mentioned previously.
Goggles should be standard EDC ski equipment, but if
not, should be included in winter survival gear.

Of course cold, but also Wind can be the big enemy.

So, an extra layer of pants, thin wind-pants being a minimum.
A decent-sized parka hood on at least one jacket.
Face-mask that breaks the wind like chamois leather.
(A Balaclava will NOT due for this, even though I like it
as a hat and improvised mask.)

2 knit ski caps. (May not be needed of you have a foam
insulated helmet.)

People at downhill ski resorts rarely get lost, but it does
happen. Consider a small GPS.
I believe that proportionately, snow-mobile, snow-shoe, and
cross country skiers are much more likely to get lost.
OTOH, downhill resort skiers are less likely to have survival
gear.

As others have mentioned, a whistle and signal mirror. Any reason you can't carry a small fanny or day pack with more stuff in it???

The problem with carrying alot of bulky "hard" items while skiing is that you are increasing the risk of injury should you and your boards switch positions(ouch). I think a good whistle, the proper protective clothing, maybe a A.M. heatsheet, a small fire kit, a photon micro, a map of the resort and a small multi tool would be sufficient. AS LONG AS YOU STAY INBOUNDS!! I would just carry the items throughout your body and not bulk them up in one area.

Shows what I, a hater of the dreaded white stuff, didn't think about...

Have you skied before? In my experience falling onto gear isn't as much as a problem as some people here seem to think. I've just come back from a week skiing. I carried a phone and a GPS, and fell several times, without them hurting. I wore a jacket with chest pockets. In a fall that area tends to be protected by my arms, and/or curling my body around it.

I carried less than I have done in previous years, and not much more than my usual EDC plus ski clothes. The GPS is fun because it records maximum speed and my tracks - it reckons I was doing over 60mph at one point. I did carry a 350ml pouch of water and a Snickers bar, which I don't EDC. I wouldn't leave my phone behind. Coverage tends to be good in popular ski areas, and phone + GPS is usually enough to you rescued. (I'm not saying to rely on this, just that it is the best first resort and better than spending a night on the mountain side.)

Hi Dan_McI

One wrong turn on the ski slopes.

http://quicksilverscreen.com/watch?video=26001

If you are new to skiing or boarding (I hope not to offend anyone):

Acquire a park map, spend some time learning the runs you are likely to encounter and keep the map on you. Learn the color codes and insignia. One small lapse and you will find yourself on a black run instead of a green run. That is no small difference.

Getting out of bounds is tough to do. Refuse to take any neat looking shortcuts. Yes, there's sweet powder on the sides, but forget about it.

You are going to get warm then cold, then warm then cold. If the lift "breaks", you will get very cold. The wind will bite at your face - have goggles. A lot of people wear ear protection.

Have a cell phone. If in a party, carry walkies, also. Have a re-grouping plan. Keep in frequent contact with your party - know what runs they are on (some parks are large - some are huge). Sooner or later, someone will need to go back to the lodge or the vehicle. By the way, having to go back takes forever - try not to have to.

You will get thirsty - Camelbaks are awesome. You will get hungry - carry snacks.

Secure all items so you don't lose anything should you hit the surface ungracefully.

Everyone needs to have personal information and 'contact in case' information on them.

Have a great time!

I carry what I would for a day hike. My daughter is now carring and find all the stuff I ask here to take useful. Yes you can call for help but......
cheers