Ahead of the winter skiing and snowboarding season, Abta has teamed up with the Foreign Office (FCO) and Ski Club of Great Britain to urge holidaymakers to check their insurance policies for winter sports coverage.

Citing YouGov data, Abta says around 22% of British adults who have taken a winter sports holiday have never checked their insurance policy for ski and snowboard coverage, rising to 28% among those aged 55 and over.

Younger people though are more likely to check their coverage with one in seven (15%) admitting having not checked their coverage before a winter sports holiday.

Abta members, meanwhile, have reported two British ski fatalities over the past 12 months, and 197 “significant incidents”.

The association though says as this only represents its members, the true number is likely to be “much higher”.

Medical bills, says Abta, relating to ski or snowboard accidents, typically run to thousands of pounds, especially if they require airlift.

Abta is also reminding holidaymakers many policies will require skiers and snowboarders to wear a helmet even if it is not required by local laws.

Nikki White, Abta’s director of destinations and sustainability, said: “Thousands of people are hitting the slopes each year without the right travel insurance. Many wrongly assume they are automatically covered for winter sports as part of their travel insurance, putting them at risk of costly medical bills if they have an accident.

“As we head into the winter sports season, we advise holidaymakers to check their insurance cover before travelling. It’s also important holidaymakers get themselves ski-fit in order to be safe on the slopes.”

Susan Crown, FCO head of consular communications and engagement, reiterated the FCO would not pay medical bills or repatriation costs.

“It’s worth taking a few minutes to be sure all planned activities are covered, and any medical conditions declared,” said Crown. “This small step can help ensure that you get the support you need should anything go wrong. We want to encourage British nationals to #SkiSafe this winter.”

Darren Neylon, Ski Club of Great Britain chief executive, has urged any winter sports enthusiasts to ensure they check their insurance coverage, determine they are fit enough for any challenging activities, and wear a helmet at all times.