The prediction: this winter could be like no other, especially as far as ski injuries go in the guiding community. This is the opinion of Fraser Sprigings, a Physiotherapist in Revelstoke BC, who rehabs a lot of ski-related injuries, and who is very familiar with the helicat sector. After talking with Fraser, it became clear that we should increase awareness of potential injuries in the guiding community for this unprecedented winter.
It’s important to highlight the 84% loss in skier days the helicat industry faced last year during the 2020/21 winter. This dramatic decrease in skier days last season shows us that many guides may not have been working, or working at a much reduced capacity. We are now facing an epic winter of fully booked operations, pent up demand from our international guests, and a forecast of endless snow! Both the excitement and need to get back to work this season, coupled with the new COVID challenges, is predicted to lead to an increase in injuries due to increased fatigue, self-imposed pressures to work, and lack of fitness. Dealing with COVID-19 and the new challenges it has brought to our workplace practices is also both physically and mentally tiring.
So, how can we mitigate the risk? By bringing awareness early to the potential for increased injuries within the guiding community this season - attention brought to the issue can help in making safe decisions may be necessary.
From hindsight we know that what gets measured, gets managed. HeliCat’s Incident Reporting and Exchange software (HIRE) is the perfect place to track injuries and near-misses. If we track these occurrences, then we can be even more prepared for future management.
Fraser has recently written articles for the CAA and ACMG addressing this same issue. Although I’m sure that ski guide’s injuries keep Fraser busy with work, I thank him for helping us to bring early awareness to the challenges facing guides this season. Thank you for your support Fraser, and advocacy for the HIRE system. Let’s have an excellent winter of skiing!