A tragic incident at a Banff ski resort has drawn attention to the risks associated with snow sports, even on designated trails. Over the weekend, a 47-year-old skier was found in deep snow near a beginner-level trail, where attempts to revive her were unsuccessful. While the exact cause of her death remains unconfirmed, one possibility is snow suffocation, as reported by Sunshine Village Ski Resort.
Snow immersion suffocation (SIS) can occur when a skier becomes trapped in deep snow, leading to suffocation within minutes. This phenomenon, primarily occurring in treed areas rather than groomed runs, poses a significant risk to winter sports enthusiasts. According to experts, staying on groomed trails significantly reduces the chances of encountering tree wells or SIS accidents.
Statistics show that an average of 4.7 deaths from SIS occur each ski season in the U.S., with fatalities reported in the Western U.S. and Canada due to tree well incidents. To prevent such accidents, skiers are advised to ski cautiously in fresh powder and maintain visual contact with their skiing partners.
In case of a snow immersion incident, swift action is crucial. Rescuers should avoid pulling the victim out by force but instead dig a tunnel to the person’s head. Additionally, if caught in deep snow, individuals should stay calm, create an air pocket around their face, and avoid relying solely on self-rescue tips.
It’s essential to prioritize safety and awareness when engaging in snow sports to prevent tragic incidents like snow immersion suffocation.