Serious ski and snowboard accidents are rare, but it’s always sad and thought-provoking when something unfortunate happens that makes the news. In January, my family and I were discussing this accident involving children at Squaw Valley. As ski parents, we’ve invested a lot of time in helping our sons learn to be safe. This is […]
ski safety
What Does Ski Patrol Do? [Powderhorn Ski Patrol Ski Along]
Lifelong skiers, we thought we were pretty plugged into what ski patrol do each day. Then we participated in a Ski Patrol Ski Along at Powderhorn Mountain Resort in western Colorado. Promoted as an opportunity to “ski or ride with the ultimate local,” Powderhorn’s Ski Patrol Ski Along provides a behind the scenes education at what ski patrol […]
What is Ski and Snowboard Evacuation Insurance and Do You Need It?
Last winter, one of my son’s friends was in a ski accident that required evacuation to a hospital. (Spoiler Alert: It’s all good! He’s mended and has a season pass in hand for this winter.) This young man spent two weeks in a hospital 2,000 miles from his family, before they arrived to take him […]
Snowbasin Resort Avalanche Dogs Pay Their Own Way at Annual Fundraiser
It’s hard to resist an avalanche rescue dog. While some of us adore all dogs, avy dogs are special. It’s not that they are necessarily cuter or smarter than the average family pet. But they are impressively trained and their lifesaving skills increase their appeal. Here’s just one impressive statistic: One avalanche dog can cover […]
Not the Mama: Helicopter Rescue Drills with the Steamboat Ski Patrol
By Martin Griff The sights and sounds of a medical transport helicopter repeatedly flying over and landing on Steamboat Resort trails in northwestern Colorado last season brought concern to curious spectators and then relief when they learned it was a drill and not a real emergency. Ski patrol members closed off designated trails before each […]