From avalanche control at sunrise to high-speed rescues in the back bowls, the ski patrol at Big White Ski Resort are the unsung heroes of the mountain. Their job goes far beyond the red jackets and rescue sleds, it’s about keeping the slopes safe, responding to emergencies, and ensuring every skier and snowboarder can enjoy their day. In this article, inspired by the SnowBrains video feature, we take you behind the scenes to see what it’s really like to work as part of this elite team.

Morning: Avalanche Control & Mountain Safety

Before the lifts start spinning, Big White’s ski patrol is already hard at work. The day often begins with avalanche control missions, using explosives, ski cutting, and route checks to ensure the terrain is safe for the public.
Patrollers also inspect signage, fences, and hazard markers, making sure everything meets safety standards. It’s a critical part of the job that combines technical avalanche training with split-second decision-making.

Highlights:

• Early-morning snowpack assessment

• Avalanche risk mitigation with precision blasting

• Updating trail and hazard markers for the day ahead

Midday: On-Mountain Rescues & First Aid

Once the mountain opens, patrollers are stationed across the resort, ready to respond to injuries, lost guests, or incidents. From sprained knees on beginner runs to high-speed crashes in the glades, they bring both medical expertise and mountain savvy.

Highlights:

• Transporting injured skiers in toboggans

• Coordinating with medical teams at the base

• Search and rescue operations in adverse weather

Afternoon: Guest Education & Terrain Management

Patrollers aren’t just there for emergencies, they also spend time educating guests about safe skiing and mountain etiquette. They work with lift operators, terrain park staff, and instructors to keep the mountain flowing smoothly.

Highlights:

• Answering guest safety questions

• Guiding skiers away from closed terrain

• Monitoring high-traffic areas for hazards

End of Day: Sweep & Final Checks

When the lifts stop running, ski patrol begins the “sweep”, a final check of every run to make sure no one is left on the mountain. They ski every trail, from wide-open groomers to remote tree runs, often in low light or changing weather conditions.

Highlights:

• Coordinated communication to confirm all runs are clear

• Checking for equipment or belongings left behind

• Final hazard checks before shutting down for the night

Why This Matters for Shredder Users

For skiers and riders logging their days on the Shredder ski app, understanding the work of ski patrol adds a deeper appreciation for each run tracked. The vertical drops, speed records, and powder days wouldn’t be possible without their behind-the-scenes efforts.

The ski patrol at Big White Ski Resort blends skill, courage, and dedication into every shift. Whether they’re detonating charges at dawn or helping a young skier get back on their feet, they’re the heartbeat of the mountain. So, next time you track your vertical on Shredder, remember, the heroes in red made it possible.