January 9, 2006

WHISTLER BLACKCOMB URGES SKIERS AND RIDERS TO PLAY SAFE WHILE ON THE MOUNTAINS

Using Common Sense and Adherence to Signage is the Key

Whistler, B.C., January 9, 2006 - With the arrival of more than 200cm of snow over the past two weeks, and more snow on the way, anticipation for an epic season ahead is taking over the thoughts of guests and locals alike. Although excitement is high, Whistler Blackcomb urges all skiers and riders to use their common sense and take it easy and play safe while on the mountains.

"Skiers and riders who choose to venture off marked runs must be aware of what is required to do so safely," says Brian Leighton, Whistler Blackcomb’s Safety Manager. "Always plan where you are going and how to get out safely, even though you may be within ski area boundaries. Skiing and riding is fun, but giving serious thought as to how the combinations of the environment, terrain and your ability level can affect a run is key to having a safe day on the mountain."

If you are venturing into advanced or expert terrain, things like a whistle, a plan on where you are going, how you're getting out, and a leader that knows where he/she is going are vital precautions.

When choosing to ski or ride a certain line on the mountain, weigh the risks and always take exposure and consequences of a fall into consideration. "If people used their heads and exercised common sense we might see fewer serious occurrences," continues Leighton. "A long slide down a snowy slope is lower risk than a tumble down a rocky chute."

Obeying on-mountain signage is another key ingredient for a safe day on the slopes. The following are the definitions and their associated expectations at Whistler Blackcomb regarding ski and snowboard terrain status.

Ski Area Boundary

This sign indicates the edge of Whistler Blackcomb’s patrolled area. There may not be lift access and guests may have to hike out. Skiing or riding outside the area is done at guests’ own risk and it is strongly recommended that guests have the essential personal safety gear. Education (Avalanche Courses), information (Avalanche Bulletin) and a qualified guide are also a must. People requiring rescue from the backcountry can be charged for their rescue. In early season, ski area boundaries often exist within the ski area. These boundaries denote parts of the mountain that are not yet ready to open. As a result there is no hazard marking, no patrol and no sweep. Can you go there? Yes, but be prepared!

Permanently Closed

Permanent closures at Whistler Blackcomb are areas of the mountain that are NEVER open. These are areas within the ski area that are not suitable for guests or staff. The danger of entering these areas often extends beyond the risk to the skier/rider as they threaten skiers on runs below. Cliffs, crevasses, and avalanches are the main hazards in permanent closures. Can you go there? No. Lift access privileges WILL be revoked.

Closed Avalanche Hazard

A close relative to the permanent closure, the avalanche closure is used for temporary closure of areas within the ski area. Avalanche closures are used to keep guests out of harm’s way while active avalanche control is taking place or when the hazard grows too high and control is not possible. Can you go there? No. Lift access privileges WILL be revoked.

Closed

When a run or area is marked with closed signs it is for a specific reason. The danger in that area is too great. Runs are closed for several reasons; trees have fallen onto the run, ditches or holes have rendered the run unsafe, race or other events are taking place, terrain parks are not yet ready to open, or perhaps snow making or other machinery is operating. Can you go there? No. Lift access privileges MAY be revoked.

Whistler Blackcomb takes safety on the mountains very seriously, continually promoting safety on the slopes through ongoing education. This week Whistler Blackcomb, in conjunction with ThinkFirst, will launch A Little Respect: ThinkFirst a comprehensive safety video designed to instruct young skiers, snowboarders, coaches, trainers, teachers and parents about being safe while having fun skiing and snowboarding.

For further information on safety at Whistler Blackcomb, visit /mountain/safety/safety/index.htm