Skiing Tragedies a Sobering Safety Reminder

The first month of 2024 has been marred by tragedy on the slopes, with two separate incidents leading to skier deaths on Blackcomb Mountain.

The first incident occurred on January 10 when a 42-year-old resident of British Columbia was discovered unresponsive in a gladed area near 7th Avenue and Expressway on Blackcomb Mountain. Tragically, despite efforts to save him, the man was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not yet released his identity. The cause of death was attributed to snow immersion, highlighting the lurking dangers of off-piste skiing and tree-well suffocation.

A little over a week later, on January 19, the skiing community mourned the loss of 62-year-old Ron Stuber, a resident of Vancouver. Stuber lost his life in what was described as a “serious incident” that took place in Sapphire Bowl, an expert-designated area within Blackcomb Glacier Provincial Park. Following an evaluation by an on-duty physician at the scene, Stuber was regrettably pronounced deceased and subsequently transported off Blackcomb Mountain.

These tragic events serve as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with skiing.

For those who search for powder in the trees, danger lurks in the tree-wells. To mitigate risk and ensure a safer tree-skiing experience, always ski close to a buddy.  Read more on  how to avoid tree-well experiences.

These tragedies underscore the importance of defensive skiing practices and the need for constant vigilance to ensure safety in the mountains.

Be safe folks!