Ski officials share mountain safety tips for Colorado slopes

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KJCT) - Four deaths have occurred in January at Colorado ski resorts this season.

Skiing and snowboarding can be exhilarating, but they also come with real risks. Purgatory Resort, which has had no recent reported incidents, shared safety guidance about how people can be safe on the mountain.

“The greatest risks of the sport itself are probably collisions with trees and or other skiers are probably the greatest risks,” said Julian DePasquale, Director of HR & Risk for Purgatory Resort.

Safety officials said collisions are often tied to speed, ability level and awareness, especially on busy days or unfamiliar terrain.

Knowing how and where to ski is critical, especially for beginners or those pushing into more advanced runs.

“First and foremost, you have to have an understanding of your ability level. You have to understand what terrain you’re comfortable on and can ski in control. That means being able to control your speed, being able to turn and stop, and being able to avoid things as they pop up are all ways that you can keep yourself in control,” DePasquale said.

Beyond skill level, being prepared for changing mountain conditions is just as important.

“When you’re taking part in this sport, especially in Colorado, it is a high alpine environment. And so you certainly should make sure you have the right equipment to protect yourself. Obviously, making sure you’re prepared for whatever the weather is,” the official said.

If something does go wrong, they strongly encourage reaching out to the mountain ski patrol.

“If you call patrol, the best thing that you can do as a skier is give an accurate description of your location as well as what the injured party looks like so that it’s easy for patrol to respond quickly,” the official said.

DePasquale said resort workers are there because they love the sport and want to share it with as many people as possible.

“We’re all here working for the ski resort because we love sport and we want to be able to share it with as many people as possible. So, if you feel uncomfortable or you don’t know where to go or what to do, please ask for help. We’re here to help you and make sure that you have a good time,” DePasquale said.

For more safety tips, visit the National Ski Areas Association website here.