Canadian Ski Patrol, Insurance Brokers Issue Safety Warning

In the wake of recent skiing and boarding tragedies, the Canadian Ski Patrol System (CSPS) and the Insurance Brokers Association of Canada (IBAC) are advising Canadians to take precautions when skiing and riding this winter.

“There are many skiing and riding tragedies that can be avoided,” said
CSPS National President John Leu. “Canadians need to realize that when they make bad choices on the slopes, they are not just putting their lives at risk needlessly, but also those of their future rescuers.”

The Canadian Ski Patrol System is a national, not-for-profit organization that provides safety programs, first aid and rescue services to ski resorts. T

To assist the CSPS with the goal of keeping Canadians on ski hills
safe, IBAC has donated 4,000 magenta blankets to them for use in the delivery of their services.

In wanting to keep Canadians safe while enjoying the slopes, the CSPS strongly advises skiers and snowboarders to adhere to the Alpine Responsibility Code, which states:

Always stay in control, and be able to stop or avoid other people or
objects.

People ahead of you have the right of way. It is your responsibility to
avoid them.

You must not stop where you obstruct a trail, or are not visible from
above.

Whenever starting downhill or merging into a trail, look uphill and
yield to others.

If you are involved in or witness a collision or accident, you must
remain at the scene and identify yourself to the Ski Patrol.

Always use devices to help prevent runaway equipment.

Observe all posted signs and warnings.

Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.

You must not use lifts or terrain if your ability is impaired through
use of alcohol or drugs.

You must have sufficient physical dexterity, ability and knowledge to
safely load, ride and unload lifts. If in doubt, ask the lift
attendant.

Leu said that he and his volunteers have seen many accidents result from skiers and snowboarders choosing not to adhere to this code. He especially warned Canadians to never attempt to go down a closed run or to ski out of bounds.

“Unfortunately,” said Leu, “every year, some people will attempt to ski
down a closed run or outside of the parameters of the marked trails at their local resorts-some even at the expense of their life, as we have seen in recent media reports. That’s why we work year-round to educate the public about these dangers and hope that those who are tempted to act recklessly while on the slopes will think twice before doing so.”

Sources:
The Insurance Brokers Association of Canada
www.ibac.ca
Canadian Ski Patrol System
www.csps.ca