Sister and Friend Save Skier Dangling from Lift at Big Bear Mountain
BIG BEAR LAKE, Calif. — A routine ski trip at Big Bear Mountain Resort turned into a harrowing ordeal when a 21-year-old woman slipped from a ski lift chair but was prevented from falling by the quick actions of her twin sister and a friend. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, was captured on video by a fellow skier and has since circulated widely, highlighting both the dangers of ski lifts and the importance of safety protocols.
Roula De Miranda-Arce was riding the lift alongside her twin sister, Raizel, and a friend when she accidentally slipped out of her seat. As she dangled precariously, her sister and friend grabbed her arms, holding on tightly until the lift reached the top of the hill where ski patrol personnel were able to assist her safely down.
“She accidentally slipped and was really falling,” Raizel told NBC Los Angeles. “My friend was screaming at her, stop wiggling. She was in panic mode.” Roula described the terrifying moments suspended above the ground, saying, “My body was in so much pain. I was so scared. I looked down and kept seeing my death.”
The dramatic rescue was recorded by Pierce Mayer, a fellow skier who witnessed the event unfold. “I was watching each of the chairs come over the hill,” Mayer said. “That lift starts down the hill. The girl could have been hanging way longer than it looks like in the video.” Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported.
Big Bear Mountain Resort officials later stated that the incident was caused by safety protocols not being properly followed. Ski lifts, while generally safe, require riders to remain seated and secure at all times to prevent accidents. The resort’s ski patrol team responded promptly, underscoring the importance of trained personnel in managing emergencies.
This event echoes concerns raised by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission regarding ski lift safety, which emphasizes rider awareness and adherence to safety guidelines to prevent falls and injuries. The resort’s swift response aligns with recommendations from the National Park Service, which advises immediate assistance and evacuation in case of lift-related accidents.
Roula expressed profound gratitude toward her sister and friend, saying, “I love my sister and my friend. I’m so thankful they saved me.” The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of mountain sports and the critical role of vigilance and preparedness.
Big Bear Mountain Resort, a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts in Southern California, continues to review its safety measures in light of this close call. The resort encourages all visitors to follow posted safety instructions and to report any concerns to ski patrol immediately.
For those interested in ski lift safety protocols and emergency procedures, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration provides comprehensive guidelines on safe ski lift operations and rider conduct.
As this incident illustrates, even a momentary lapse can lead to life-threatening situations, but quick thinking and teamwork can make all the difference.
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