Man Swept Away by Avalanche Given First Aid at B.C. Ski Resort

Despite severe injuries, Fisher was conscious and calling out for help. Williams quickly assessed the situation and began providing first aid. Fisher had suffered serious facial trauma, including a badly damaged jaw, and had a deep wound to his throat that was bleeding heavily. One of his legs was twisted awkwardly around the tree and was later confirmed to be broken.

Williams removed his tuque and applied direct pressure to Fisher’s throat wound to help control the bleeding. He attempted several times to call 911 but could not get a cell signal. With no immediate way to reach emergency services, he shouted repeatedly until someone in the distance responded that ski patrol was on the way.

Staying Calm Under Extreme Pressure

While waiting for rescue, Williams stayed with Fisher, holding him upright and encouraging him to remain conscious. He focused on keeping his friend breathing and told him not to look at his injuries or the blood.

Williams later said he believed he might be holding his friend for the last time. As they waited, two additional avalanches slid down nearby sections of the mountain, narrowly missing their position in the trees.

Rescue and Recovery

Ski patrollers eventually arrived at the scene, took over first aid care, and prepared Fisher for evacuation. He was transported off the mountain and airlifted by helicopter to Kelowna General Hospital.

Doctors confirmed Fisher suffered several broken ribs, a dislocated hip, a broken ankle, and deep lacerations to his throat. Despite the severity of the incident, he avoided significant head or spinal injuries and is now recovering.

Following the avalanche, SilverStar Mountain Resort stated that independent avalanche consultants were hired to investigate snow conditions. Several runs on the back side of the mountain were temporarily closed as a precaution.

LEARN MORE

Learn How First Aid Training Can Save Lives

This incident highlights how immediate first aid can save lives—especially in remote or wilderness settings where professional emergency responders may be delayed. Knowing how to control bleeding, manage traumatic injuries, and keep a victim conscious can make a critical difference.

To build these essential skills, consider enrolling in certified training through Winnipeg First Aid. Their First Aid and CPR courses teach practical, hands-on skills such as bleeding control, injury management, CPR, and AED use—skills that can be applied both outdoors and in everyday emergencies.

For additional information, explore these trusted first aid resources:

• WikiHow – Basic First Aid
  https://www.wikihow.com/Do-Basic-First-Aid

• WebMD – First Aid Overview
  https://www.webmd.com/first-aid/default.htm

• WebMD – Treating Bleeding, Cuts, and Wounds
  https://www.webmd.com/first-aid/bleeding-cuts-wounds