Message #17010

[Liam]

BB,

as one of the few actual paid people on patrol I can add a few other points.  We are not held to an OSHA standard...if we were, The ski area would not only stipulate PPE protocols, but, by law, would have to provide ALL OF OUR PPE equipment (and pay for our safety training as well-which is standard for all EMT outfits).   You probably noticed that hasn't happened. Fortunately for them, we are an NSP affiliated, self-funded and independent (and over 90% volunteer!).

That aside, making Patrollers wear helmets is no big deal, of course.  But as far as the General Public or raising eyebrows at the helmetless antics of JP Auclair, I think it is misplaced concern at best, and intrusive nannyism at worst.

As someone who often sides with my kids when they relate to me the latest tyranies imposed by control freak lunch moms on the playground, I've come to view "Safety" as the new fascism.