It is that time of year again. Autumn colours are painting the mountains in vibrant reds, yellows and oranges. There is that crisp feel in the air and the tangy scent of fall.

For members of the Canadian Ski Patrol System, Yukon Zone, it is also a reminder of another season to be enjoyed on the ski slopes and cross-country trails.

However, before members can patrol the slopes and trails they must under go in-depth first aid training or re-certification.

"First aid training is the first step in becoming a member of the patrol,” confirmed Tim Sellars, president of the Yukon Zone of the CSPS in Whitehorse. First aid training takes place through the month of October with exams at the beginning of November. Training typically happens on Wednesday evenings from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Don White, a member of the training crew, admits that the training can be grueling, but stated that when the need arises, it's comforting to the patroller (and the patient) to know that they have the knowledge and hours of practice to be able to deal with anything that they encounter on the slopes or trails.

Training continues on the slopes of Mt. Sima and the trails of Mt. McIntyre after the first aid training is completed. Patrollers need to train with toboggans and snow machines to be able to assist tired or injured skiers and snowboarders off the slopes and trails. This aspect of training is particularly dependent on the managers of both recreational facilities.

"Everyone connected with the operating of the facilities is part of the team,” said Tim Sellars, president of the Yukon Zone. "Without the support and co-operation of people like Mike Gladish (manager of the Whitehorse Cross-Country Ski Club) or Guillaume Rochet (manager of the Mt. Sima ski hill) the members of the ski patrol would not be able to provide the safety and rescue services we offer. We have had excellent co-operation from these two organizations and hope that we are able to continue working well together in providing a safe environment for winter sports.”

Anyone wishing to join ski patrol need only contact a member of the patrol, complete a registration form at the Sport Yukon office at 4061 4th Ave., or go on line at: www.yukonzone.org to find out more information. Registration is open until Sept. 30.

For more information, contact: Tim Sellars 668-6095 (home) or 667-8118 (work)

By Don White