I am writing to express my deep disappointment and concern regarding the recent handling of an emergency situation at Park City Mountain Resort under Vail’s management. Today, while skiing near the Payday Lift, I witnessed what I considered the incompetence of an unprepared and untrained ski patrol that jeopardized the safety of a guest. I had to assist a woman from Alabama who suffered a clear break in her lower leg. The severity of her injury required immediate attention, yet it took ski patrol nearly 20 minutes to arrive on the scene — despite our location being only a short distance from a major lift.This delay not only caused unnecessary pain and distress for the injured skier, but also demonstrated the troubling state of Vail’s ski patrol operations. In my experience, such a lengthy response time is unacceptable for any resort, let alone one that touts its status as a premier destination for skiers and riders. It’s clear to me that the ski patrol personnel were either inadequately trained or lacking the resources to respond in a timely and professional manner. The fact that this woman had to wait in such excruciating circumstances without prompt help is a serious safety issue, and it raises questions about the broader competency of the resort’s emergency response team.As a local resident, I am also deeply frustrated by Vail Resorts’ approach to our town. It has become painfully clear that their priorities lie in short-term growth and maximizing profits rather than being a responsible steward of the Park City community. The corporation seems far more focused on its bottom line than on the well-being of the people who live here, work here and visit our town. The damage done by Vail’s unchecked expansion, the increasing crowds, and the apparent neglect of crucial aspects like ski patrol training is damaging not only to the resort’s reputation but to the overall integrity of our town. It’s disheartening to see a company that once seemed committed to its community now so plainly indifferent to the long-term health of the area, its residents, and its visitors.I understand that ski resorts face challenges, but these should not come at the expense of safety or the fabric of the town that makes this place so special. Vail must recognize its responsibility to Park City — not just as a financial asset, but as a place with a unique community and heritage that deserves more than just being treated as another entry on a profit-and-loss statement.Skiers and snowboarders trust ski patrols to respond quickly and competently in times of need. Vail must urgently invest in the training and resources required to ensure that no other guests or locals are put at risk in this way. If Vail truly cares about the long-term future of Park City, it must take responsibility for the safety of its guests and the well-being of its community.Damon RottermondPark CityThe post Safety first? appeared first on Park Record.