A look behind the scenes: The Gargellen ski patrol
Gargellen Ski Patrol
We all hope we’ll never need their help, and yet we’re glad they’re there quickly in an emergency—the ski patrol team.
The ski patrol team at the resort consists of six members. Their daily beat: the slopes in Gargellen. And they know them inside and out. After all, every hilltop, every tree, and every lift pole can provide a crucial clue for describing an accident site. Due to the size of the ski resort, four ski patrollers are on duty each day and stationed at the Schafberg Hüsli.
No two days are alike.
During the ski resort’s operating hours, our on-mountain rescue team is on call. It’s certainly possible for a day to go by without a single call. On other days, accidents pile up and our rescuers have to be at three accident sites at once. This naturally requires a certain degree of flexibility and the ability to handle stress. However, physical fitness and strong skiing skills are particularly important for their work. After all, the rescue of an injured person in a rescue sled—the so-called “Akja”—must be carried out flawlessly and safely, even on steep slopes and in severe weather conditions.
In the event of serious injuries or if immediate emergency care is required, the response team must call for a rescue helicopter. In Gargellen and throughout Vorarlberg, we are fortunate to have four helicopters available for rescue operations: the “Christophorus 8,” “Gallus 1,” “Gallus 2,” and “Robin 1.” On particularly busy days, air rescue is also supported across state lines—for example, by Christoph Liechtenstein, the Swiss Air Rescue Service Rega, or Tyrolean Air Rescue. The air rescue team can then reach the scene within minutes.
