Since Vail Resorts bought Whistler Blackcomb there has been a noticeable decrease in number of safety staff enforcing excess speeding on crowded runs suitable for beginners. This has resulted in increasing numbers of injuries caused by collisions. Some life changing, that is a broken neck and multiple surgeries later the person still cannot stand up straight. I myself have been hit three times this season alone; the last one resulting in a broken leg/ankle.

Instructors working on the mountain have also been seriously injured. See article in local newspaper. https://www.piquenewsmagazine.com/opinion/letter-lack-of-action-on-whistlers-reckless-skiers-is-astounding-11936749

The impact was very forceful because he did not “see me” and as a result could not stop. The person who hit me felt bad about it but the damage was done. This incident and conversations with many friends who have similar concerns prompted me to start this petition.

Whistler’s Emergency Department noted that there has been a significant increase in collision accidents in the last few years. At the same time there has been a noticeable lack of Safety Staff volunteers on the mountain and lack of enforcement over reckless skiing, particularly in busy areas and designated slow zones. It is so bad, that even experienced and expert skiers find it daunting and nerve racking to ski during busy times; such as skiing out at the end of the day.

The situation is so bad that ski school has had to create its own blocked off run for teaching. We are requesting that measures are taken by Vail and Whistler Blackcomb for next ski season to improve safety on the the mountain. Below are ways that this could be done:

1.          Increase Safety Staff. Currently there are so few that at many times both mountains cannot be staffed. Number of staff needs to sufficient to properly monitor safety.

2.          Enforce the Alpine Responsibility Code. This means monitor reckless skiing and create consequences. In the past dangerous skiing could mean having one’s pass taken away.

3.          Instruct Children Instructors. Children’s instructors have been regularly seen having their students jump over roads in congested areas. This is dangerous behaviour and is teaching them the wrong message.

4.          Create speed traps. One method would be to cordon off areas in such a way as to force riders to slow down with Large Signs indicating that this is a speed controlled area with consequences for speeding.

5.          WB / Vail consider publishing accident data (i.e. number of injury reports on mountain)

Please help us to request the above actions by signing this petition, WE BELIEVE IT WITHIN OUR RIGHTS TO DEMAND VAIL RESORTS GIVE PRIORITY TO OUR SAFETY.

Dr. Christina Williams, Vancouver BC

Please add your voice to ours and sign this petition to demand that Vail Resorts implement comprehensive safety solutions immediately. Your support is crucial to ensuring everyone can enjoy the slopes with peace of mind and security.