Dodge Ridge National Ski Patrol: January Newsletter
Hello Team,
A massive thank you and shout-out to everyone who has patrolled and hosted so far this season! The weather and conditions have been a bit of a roller coaster, but your dedication hasn’t wavered. We truly appreciate you showing up regardless of the conditions and for the hard work you’ve put in to help the mountain get open and stay safe.
Monthly Recognitions
For the past couple of years, Chris has been recognizing members who go above and beyond. We are thrilled to announce our honorees for December:
Paid Patroller of the Month: Alyse Keller
Alyse is a true team player. Whether it’s stepping up as a Section Lead or covering the Aid Room for a few hours (or the whole day), she does whatever is asked with a great attitude.
NSP Patroller of the Month: Scott Colbeck
At the start of the season, when paid staff was shorthanded on toboggan runners, Scott stepped up big time. He ran sleds to the base and back up again repeatedly without a single complaint. Thank you for your hard work, Scott!
Host of the Month: James Hurley
In just his first two days of hosting this year, James showed incredible initiative. On his second day, he checked in with sections on every single lap to see what work needed to be done. Along with displaying a positive, friendly attitude with guests in the base area. Great job, James!
Upcoming Dates & Events
Mark your calendars for these important mid-January dates:
Saturday, Jan 10: Candidate Training begins (including ski checks) and Toboggan Refresher Clinics start. Please find an OET instructor when you are up next to get your check-off completed.
Thursday, Jan 15: Board Meeting.
Saturday, Jan 17: Target Meeting & Potluck.
The Theme: Nacho Bar!
Potluck: Top of 7/8
Target Meeting: After mountain closing procedures location to be determined.
Things to Know & Remember
1. New 10-Code Integration
We are slowly integrating 10-codes into our radio transitions. We expect a learning curve, so don’t worry about mistakes!
First Few to Focus on: 10-42 (Possible Incident); 10-97 (arrived on scene); 10-98 (departing scene); 10-95 (ambulance/activate EMS); 10-9 repeat message
On-Scene: Announce your arrival 10-97. If it is a confirmed incident, state: “Positive 10-42, Code 1 (or Code 2 or Code 3)” depending on the severity.
Laminated Cards: There are laminated cards with updated department numbers and the 10-Code numbers in the radio cabinet please take one the first day you patrol to keep in your vest.
2. OneRisk Updates
The OneRisk interface has changed slightly.
Finding Forms: Some forms (like Rental Forms and Witness Statements) are now located under the “Add Form” button/folder.
Save Often: There have been reports of data disappearing. Hit save frequently—ideably after every section you type.
3. Tickets & Lunch Vouchers
To ensure better tracking, all lift tickets and lunch vouchers must be signed out by a Board Member or Paid Staff. If you are not on the board and there is not a board member present, please check in with the paid staff to have your vouchers issued.
4. AMA (150a) Forms
All Courtesy Transports require a signed 150A form. It takes 30 seconds to get the incident number and guest info. Documentation is vital for our protection—please make sure this is done every time.
We also use these forms for anyone who does not leave in an ambulance. Please make sure to fill out digitally and on paper.
5. Equipment & Communication
Radios: Some of our batteries are aging out and not lasting the full shift. We can’t fix what we don’t know is broken, so please report any battery or radio issues immediately.
Chain of Command: If you notice issues with lift areas or off-ramps, do not contact Lift Ops directly. Report the issue to your Section Lead, who will then coordinate with the Lift Department.
In closing, thank you all for an amazing start to the season. Your hard work and dedication make this possible, and I am proud to be part of the Dodge Ridge NSP family.
See you on the slopes!
