A guest at a resort in New Hampshire experienced a frightening incident when they fell approximately 20 feet from a ski lift. The adult male fell from the Flying Bear chairlift at Attitash Mountain Resort in Bartlett at around 12:15 p.m. on a Sunday, as reported by the Associated Press. The New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office, along with representatives from the lift manufacturer, are currently investigating the incident. The safety of guests is a top priority for the resort, and they are working diligently to understand the cause of the fall.
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The resort, operated by Vail Resorts, expressed their commitment to investigating the incident thoroughly to ensure guest safety. According to the preliminary investigation by the fire marshal’s office, a mechanical failure likely caused one of the chairs on the lift to detach from the cable. Witnesses at the scene, like skier David Gunzburger, described the chaotic scene as the person who fell was attended to and taken away with a neck brace. Gunzburger shared his concerns, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation and the shock it brought to those present.
The injured individual was promptly transported to a nearby hospital and fortunately only suffered non-life-threatening injuries. He was later released from the hospital after receiving necessary medical care. Thankfully, no other injuries were reported among the passengers on the ski lift at the time. The Flying Bear chairlift, which experienced the mechanical failure, underwent its most recent inspection in November 2024, with regular annual inspections and random checks conducted throughout the year to uphold safety standards.
As the investigation unfolds, the New Hampshire State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Passenger Tramway Safety Board are working together to determine the specifics of the incident and prevent future occurrences. Insights from witnesses and officials will likely shed light on what led to the unfortunate fall from the ski lift. Ski resorts have a responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of their guests, and incidents like this serve as reminders of the importance of stringent safety protocols in the world of winter sports.
Incidents like the one at Attitash Mountain Resort highlight the inherent risks associated with recreational activities, even in well-maintained and regulated environments. Guests and visitors to ski resorts must remain vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines to minimise potential hazards. The swift response and actions taken by the staff and emergency responders in this situation demonstrate the value of preparedness and training in handling emergencies effectively.
The aftermath of this incident serves as a sobering reminder of the unpredictable nature of outdoor activities and the need for continual vigilance to prevent accidents. Ski resorts play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of their guests, and incidents like this prompt a reevaluation of safety measures and protocols. Moving forward, a comprehensive review of safety procedures and equipment maintenance is likely to be a priority for Attitash Mountain Resort and similar establishments in the industry.
As developments unfold and investigations progress, the focus remains on understanding the root cause of the ski lift accident and implementing any necessary changes to prevent similar incidents in the future. The collaboration between regulatory bodies, resort management, and safety officials underscores the shared commitment to maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for all visitors at ski resorts. Winter sports enthusiasts are encouraged to stay informed about safety guidelines and updates from resorts to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience on the slopes.