Call for Change in Safety Practices for Ski Chairlifts
The tragic incident involving Donovan Romero, who fell from a chairlift at Keystone Resort, has sparked renewed calls for improved safety measures in the skiing community. Romero’s accident, which occurred during an otherwise enjoyable day of snowboarding with a friend, resulted in severe injuries that ultimately led to his death. His story is a grim reminder of the potential dangers associated with ski chairlifts, prompting a broader discussion on the need for stricter safety protocols.
Donovan Romero, a 32-year-old father of two, was on a chairlift when he suddenly fell approximately 47 feet to the ground. Eyewitness Chris Oxford reported feeling a jolt and looked over to see his friend hanging precariously from the armrest. Despite not hearing a scream or any warning, the incident unfolded quickly, leaving Oxford helpless as he watched Romero fall onto the snow.
Statistics Highlighting the Issue
Since the 2014-15 skiing season, the Colorado Passenger Tramway Safety Board has documented an alarming 149 chairlift falls, with last season marking a peak of 18 reported falls, including several involving children. This data reveals a growing trend that raises concerns about the safety of ski lifts – especially given that over a third of reported falls involved minors.
| Year | Reported Falls | Falls Involving Children |
|---|---|---|
| 2014-2015 | 10 | 4 |
| 2024-2025 | 18 | 8 |
The investigation into Romero’s fall noted that he was adjusting his snowboard gear when he fell. While the cause of many chairlift-related accidents is attributed to “skier error,” there’s a growing consensus that safety features, particularly restraining bars, should be more effectively utilized.
Voices for Change
Mike Reitzell, president of the National Ski Areas Association, emphasized the need for a cultural shift regarding chairlift safety. Advocating for increased awareness around the use of restraining bars, he noted the importance of shifting attitudes among skiers to prioritize their safety.
The remarks from industry leaders underline the urgency for a comprehensive education campaign concerning the proper use of safety equipment on chairlifts. Similar campaigns have successfully transformed safety practices in other sectors, and now the skiing industry faces an opportunity for a similar shift.
Conclusion
As the skiing season continues, the industry must address the troubling statistics surrounding chairlift falls and fatalities. Creating a consistent safety culture could be key to preventing future tragedies and protecting skiers of all ages. Advocates for change are hopeful that with concerted efforts towards education and implementation of style guidelines, unnecessary tragedies like that of Donovan Romero’s can be avoided.
