At Cypress Mountain, a tragic accident on January 15, 2026, claimed the life of an 18-year-old skier who fell from the Sky Chair after losing consciousness. This heartbreaking incident, which has deeply affected our community, underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety measures on chairlifts across British Columbia. While no mechanical failure was reported, such tragedies highlight vulnerabilities that could be mitigated with better equipment.

This petition calls on British Columbia ski resort operators and Technical Safety BC to mandate the installation of downward positioned restraints that go in-between the riders legs (also known as central vertical bar, crotch pin, retention post restraint bars, or anti-submarining devices) on all chairlifts to prevent falls and protect riders. Sky Chair on Cypress already has a version of crotch pins but most in BC do not. Technical Safety BC should review and move to implement the best version province wide.

Skiing and snowboarding are thrilling winter sports, but they carry inherent risks, especially on lifts. A simple yet proven safety feature—the downward-positioned restraint bar—provides a physical barrier that significantly reduces the likelihood of accidental falls, particularly for children, beginners, or those in medical distress. Many international ski resorts (and regions like the Northeast U.S. and Europe) have widely adopted these devices as standard, leading to improved rider security and fewer fall-related incidents when used properly. Installing proper restraint bars is a cost-effective, proactive step that demonstrates a commitment to safety and could prevent future tragedies.

As skiers, snowboarders, parents, and concerned residents of British Columbia, we urge ski resort operators, the BC Passenger Ropeways Regulation, Technical Safety BC, and government officials to act swiftly. Passenger safety must be prioritized when proven solutions exist.

By signing this petition, you support requiring restraint bars on all chairlifts in British Columbia to help ensure that winter sports remain safe and enjoyable for everyone. Let's honor those affected by recent tragedies by demanding better protection—sign today to help prevent the next one.

The image pictured is The Angel Handle made by ID Group.