EMS response to a ski lift disaster in the Colorado mountains.

The EMS system in a Colorado mountain community was tested by the fall of a ski lift injuring 49 people. The response was complicated by the remote location of the accident and the number of injuries. Use of a preconceived disaster plan reduced morbidity and mortality. Patients were stabilized and triaged at the disaster site, and transported to the Snake River Health Services, Inc., where a second level of triage occurred. ATLS was provided at the Snake River Health Services and patients were transported to various surgical facilities throughout Colorado. Because a disaster in a remote or rural area can more easily overwhelm available resources, physicians should ensure that a good disaster plan is in place, should be able to provide initial evaluation and stabilization of patients, and arrange transport to the nearest appropriate facility.