LIFT EVACUATION

2 Lift Evacuation The following are common elements of every evacuation: –Responsibility –Preparation –Communication and co-ordination –Equipment –Rescue procedures –Public relations

3 Preparation Make a plan Explain the plan to all people involved Train all staff Obtain equipment Check the equipment

4 Responsibility Lift safety is the responsibility of area management The development of detailed procedures, training of evacuation teams, and the actual evacuation requires joint effort between area management, lift operators and the patrol

5 Preparation Evacuation Plan –The role of each person involved in a rescue –The type and location of equipment to be used; –Detailed procedures for the rescue –Safety precautions to be observed Evacuation practice Equipment preparation

6 Communications Constant communications must exist between management, staff and Patrollers Constant communications must be maintained with stranded guests Following an evacuation, communication between leaders is still important

7 Equipment Rescue rope –Lead line, rope, knots and splices Rope devices –Rope sling, straps and hooks, pole seat

8 Evacuation Procedures Ski area management alerts the patrol that the lift must be evacuated Patrollers go to the lift, form rescue teams and prepare the rescue equipment for use As many teams as possible should be put into action, starting from the top and intermediate points on the lift line One patroller will ski/board or walk the lift line to notify passengers that they are to be evacuated

9 The Rescue Fear, apprehension and cold may cause injuries not common to skiing Guests must be told –Remain in the chair –Do not drop equipment –Do not attempt to jump Begin rescue with the chair nearest the top of the lift

10 The Follow -Up Provide first aid for anyone injured during rescue Record name, any injuries and time rescued Assist guests in descending to the chalet Do a sweep of lift area Check all equipment for defects and report to management

11 Public Relations Do not speak to the press Do not discuss causes for the lift stopping unless directed to do so by management Do not promise coffee, free passes etc. Be calm and confident Emphasize the need for safety during evacuation, not speed