SKI PATROL
& SAFETY

SKI PATROL • SAFETY

SKI PATROL

Skeetawk has partnered with Pioneer Patrol for National Ski Patrol (NSP) trained services. Ski Patrol does so much more than patch up wounds and enforce NSAA standard rules and regulations — they also set up all the boundaries and bamboo to mark obstacles, they practice chairlift evacuations, they train for potential avalanche rescue and recovery, they teach courses to help the community stay safe in the backcountry, and act as our snowcat tour guides.

Interested in becoming a Volunteer patroller?

To qualify for NSP, you need to complete an Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC) certification. You may also be able to challenge the OEC course if you have appropriate experience and/or credentials. Contact skipatrolpioneer@gmail.com to join the Pioneer Patrol and to learn more about the OEC course.

YOUNG ADULT PATROL

Young adults (ages 15–17) who have participated in our Jr Ski Patrol program and are interested in a potential Ski Patrol career and furthering their snow sport safety and injury prevention can apply to become a Young Adult Patroller at Skeetawk. For more information contact info@skeetawk.com

Back to the ToP^

SAFETY

Safety / Skier Responsibility Code

1. Always stay in control, and be able to stop or avoid other people or objects.
2. People ahead or downhill of you have the right-of-way. You must avoid them.
3. Stop only where you are visible from above and do not restrict traffic.
4. Look uphill and avoid others before starting downhill or entering a trail.
5. You must prevent runaway equipment.
6. Read and obey all signs, warnings, and hazard markings.
7. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
8. You must know how and be able to load, ride and unload lifts safely. If you need assistance, ask the lift attendant.
9. Do not use lifts or terrain when impaired by alcohol or drugs.
10. If you are involved in a collision or incident, share your contact information with each other and a ski area employee.

Tips for riding lifts safely

Be familiar with the type of lift you are riding, and ask for help if you need it.
Before loading, remove backpacks and secure loose items. Remove pole straps from wrists.
Look over your shoulder to watch the chair approach.
Sit all the way in the chair, with your back to the seat rest.
If the lift has a restraint bar, wait until everyone is seated, and slowly reach up and lower the bar. Do not attempt to lower the bar if you cannot reach it! Adults should always help kids to lower the bar.
Be aware of your surroundings while riding the lift. If you drop something, let it fall! You can always ask ski patrol for help retrieving the lost item.
As you approach the top terminal, prepare to raise the bar. Look for signs advising you to do so to help with your timing.

Kids must be at least 42″ tall to ride the lift alone.
Check out Discover Snow’s webpage for videos on lift safety!

Helmets are highly recommended. See the NSAA Lids On Kids program

Learn about Collision Safety and potentially save a life.

Terrain Park Safety

START SMALL – Work your way up. Build your skills.
MAKE A PLAN – Every feature. Every time.
ALWAYS LOOK – Before you drop.
RESPECT – The features and other users.
TAKE IT EASY – Know your limits. Land on your feet.

For further information on Terrain Park safety please visit www.terrainparksafety.org

Snow Immersion Suffocation

Skiing and snowboarding off the groomed runs and in deep powder is one of the most exciting and appealing parts of our sport. However, if you decide to leave the groomed trails (and especially if you decide to ride in the alders), you are voluntarily accepting the risk of a deep snow immersion accident. A deep snow or tree well immersion accident occurs when a skier or rider falls into an area of deep unconsolidated snow and becomes immobilized and suffocates. Deaths resulting from these kinds of accidents are referred to as an SIS hazard or Snow Immersion Suffocation.

Become educated on how to reduce the risk of SIS hazards through your own action and awareness. ALWAYS ski or ride with a partner within viewing distance.

SKI PATROL & SAFETY