Brains
In a recent conversation with our readers, we asked, “Do you put the ski patrol number in your phone when at a resort, just in case?” The question sparked 120 comments and over 150 reactions, with many good points discussed.
Overwhelmingly, the majority of responses were in favor of this practice. Many seasoned riders hadn’t ever thought about it but acknowledged it as a wise move. Most notably, there was no good reason not to do it besides just being lazy or not wanting to “jinx” your day by potentially bringing on bad karma. But it’s not just for your benefit. Wouldn’t you want to help someone in need if you were on the scene first? As lovers of this sport, all skiers and riders must look out for each other.
The comments were filled with many stories of times they needed to call ski patrol because they, their friend, or someone else needed help. Tales of broken backs, lost children, lacerated legs, people lying unconscious, a bruised MCL, and someone stuck in the trees with a dislocated kneecap were just some of the stories told where they wished they had ski patrol on speed dial. Sure, you could call 9-1-1, but it is nice to have a direct line to ski patrol in an emergency, when precious time could make a difference. Calling 9-1-1 goes to a bigger switchboard and can tax EMS resources. Calling ski area dispatch directly is a one-step process rather than three and can save precious minutes.
Where can I get Ski Patrol’s number?
There are several ways to locate the resort’s ski patrol number. The first place to look is your lift ticket or season pass. Sometimes, the ski patrol number is right on the pass for easy access. The next spot should be the resort’s public website. Most will have a “Contact Us” section that lists all the different resort departments.
Another good source is the resort’s trail map. Besides the mountain’s layout, the trail map often has much other information, like restaurant options, parking information, policies, and contact information, including ski patrol. Lastly, many apps have the ski patrol information built into them. This could be your home mountain app, a national pass app, or a general snow sports app such as Slopes. The apps will have emergency pages with your location and the direct number for ski patrol dispatch. If your location services are turned on, they may even know exactly where you are.
Of course, having ski patrol’s number is only helpful if you have cellular service. Given the more remote location of ski resorts and the many ridges and canyons of the mountains, you might not be able to call for help. This is where a 2-way radio could come in handy. You can check to see if ski patrol has a radio channel they make available to the public to use in an emergency. Some resorts won’t want you on their frequency. I know my home mountain doesn’t, but Mt. Baker in Washington is a place where I have skied that does. Appropriately, the channel they use is 9-11.
The Instagram video below from snowboard influencer David Muther (@halfcabking) shows a real-life scenario where having ski patrol’s number helped. The footage shows him riding down the hill when he sees another snowboarder walking down the mountain. He asks him, “Y’all good bro?” to which the man walking down says, “Naw bro, I think I broke my collarbone.” He was then able to call ski patrol to help.
More Tips
When you call for help, be ready with the nature of the need and your exact location on the mountain, if you know it, or what lifts or identifiable features you can see if you don’t. Providing your jacket color or a basic description of yourself can also be helpful. Also, ensure that ski area dispatch has your number for a potential call-back.
The best action is to have the ski patrol dispatch number on your phone beforehand. You don’t want to be Googling for it in desperation. Don’t be afraid to call them for any reason; that is why they are there. The patrollers are in the industry to help people; it is their job. Even if you need a courtesy ride down the mountain, they will surely oblige.
Taking extra time before your next ski day to ensure you have the people with the red coats’ numbers can be a vital safety measure while hitting the slopes. In case of emergencies or accidents during your skiing adventure, having direct access to ski patrol can significantly reduce response time and ensure prompt medical assistance. Whether for quick aid, reporting hazards, or seeking guidance on the mountain, having their number readily available can make a crucial difference in safeguarding your and others’ skiing experience.
