This involves ensuring that all skiers and boarders get down safely at their own pace, and that no one is missing. Ski patrollers will also pick up any markers, temporary signs or netting that were used during the course of the day. At the end of the sweep the shift supervisor will call an end to the day and the patrollers go home to rest before starting all over again the next day. Since shift requirements vary from ski area to ski area, volunteer patrollers may work some weeknights, some weekends or a combination of both. Paid patrollers often work during the week on a regular basis.
Training Becoming a patroller, whether paid or volunteer is no easy task.
The OEC standard is more comprehensive than the American Red Cross' advanced first aid program under the Emergency Medical System standard. Many patrollers are also qualified as EMT's. In fact, some ski areas, especially those in the Rocky Mountains, may require that all patrollers be qualified as state-certified EMT's or higher in order to join a patrol. Basic patrollers must also demonstrate proficient ski and toboggan handling skills. In order to reach this level, each patroller must go through extensive training and testing that lasts anywhere from eight months to two years.