A six-year-old child was dragged 400 meters by the neck on a ski lift due to an oversized racing bib during an alpine race in Norway, resulting in severe injury and a three-day induced coma.
A tragic incident occurred at Surnadal Alpinsenter in Norway when a six-year-old child was dragged for 400 meters by the neck on a ski lift. The incident was caused by the child wearing an incorrectly sized racing bib, which became entangled in the lift mechanism. Despite falling from the lift, the bib's neck strap tightened around the child's throat, leading to a loss of consciousness as the child was unable to breathe freely.
The report by the Norwegian Accident Investigation Board revealed the child's unconscious state when found, necessitating airlift to a hospital, where they remained in a medically induced coma for three days. This alarming incident raises serious concerns about safety measures in place at ski resorts, particularly during organized events where children are involved. The investigation highlighted that Surnadal Alpinsenter lacked proper risk assessments for harnessing safety protocols.
Since 2004, the Norwegian Railway Authority has recorded 168 incidents of entrapment in ski lifts. The situation emphasizes an urgent need for enhanced regulations and safety checks in ski facilities to prevent similar future tragedies, especially given the involvement of young children in such sports activities where risks need to be meticulously assessed and managed.
