North Shore Rescue (NSR) successfully saved a snowboarder trapped on Cypress Mountain. The incident occurred Tuesday afternoon and involved steep, icy terrain.
Details of the Rescue Operation
NSR detailed the rescue in a social media post made on Wednesday. Search Manager Allan McMordie provided insights to 1130 NewsRadio about the unfolding events. The snowboarder initially fell into a tree well after removing her snowboard.
Despite attempts from her friends to rescue her, she slipped further down the slope. After sliding approximately 100 meters, the snowboarder became trapped under a tree root. NSR was called in by Cypress Ski Patrol, who had already helped secure the snowboarder.
Successful Recovery
An NSR rescuer rappelled down to reach her. After ensuring her safety, the rescuer brought her back up to the ski hill. Ski patrol then transported her to the parking lot using a sled. Fortunately, the boarder emerged without injuries.
McMordie noted the situation could have been worse. He emphasized that if the snowboarder had slid further, she could have faced severe injuries from a dangerous drop below her location.
Safety Concerns on the Slopes
Data from B.C.’s Provincial Health Services Authority highlights the risks associated with snowboarding and skiing. Between 2020 and 2021, there were 369 hospitalizations related to these activities. Additionally, the BC Coroner’s Service reports an average of 10 fatalities each year in the province due to skiing or snowboarding accidents.
- 369 snowboarding/skiing hospitalizations (2020-2021)
- Approximately 10 deaths per year from related accidents in B.C.
McMordie urged families and friends visiting ski resorts to exercise caution, especially with a busy long weekend approaching. He recommended wearing micro spikes on boots to navigate the slippery ice layer beneath the fresh snow.
