Global Accessibility Awareness Day and National AccessAbility Week

By Kerri Loudoun, EDI Committee Member (kerri.loudoun@skipatrol.ca)

As members of the Canadian Ski Patrol, we are committed to providing inclusive and accessible services to all individuals, regardless of their abilities. In May, two significant events highlight the importance of accessibility: Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) and National AccessAbility Week. These celebrations offer opportunities to reflect on how our services support individuals with disabilities, both on and off the slopes.

Global Accessibility Awareness Day

Observed on the third Thursday of May, GAAD focuses on increasing digital accessibility for people with disabilities.

How the CSP is working to improve digital accessibility for its members

With the CSP’s efforts to modernize all facets of the organization, the first step has been the development of the Learning Management System (LMS), currently in production.

Special attention was paid to consider accessibility needs that are not being met with our current online learning platform.

The LMS considers different digital accessibility needs of our members when completing online training and evaluations.

Additionally, with the CSP’s implementation of Microsoft 365, accessibility features available within the platform make online meetings accessible for those within our membership who need accommodations, while serving in their various volunteer roles within the CSP.

National AccessAbility Week

From May 25 to 31, 2025, National AccessAbility Week celebrates the contributions of individuals with disabilities and the efforts to create a more accessible Canada. This week emphasizes the importance of removing barriers and promoting inclusivity in all aspects of life.

Providing accessible services to those we serve as advanced first aid providers

During our time on patrol duty - on the snow or at non-skiing events - we strive to offer services that are accessible to everyone. Several of the ski areas the CSP partners with have patrol teams that work closely with other volunteer organizations facilitating sport programs for individuals with disabilities.

Adaptive ski programs

Many ski resorts in Canada offer adaptive ski programs that cater to individuals with physical or cognitive disabilities. Perhaps you’ve seen folks from CADS or Track 3 when you’ve been on patrol duty this past winter?

These programs provide specialized equipment and instruction, allowing everyone to enjoy skiing and snowboarding.

Canadian company changing the mountain biking industry

For CSP patrollers who do mountain bike patrol, perhaps you’ve seen these innovative adaptive mountain bikes out on the trails?

Calgary-based company Bowhead Corp, has a comprehensive line of mountain bikes that make dirt trails accessible for athletes with mobility challenges.

CSP patrollers inclusively support patients

Our core advanced first aid training ensures that we can provide medical assistance to anyone in need, regardless of their abilities. This includes responding to emergencies during summer events where we may encounter individuals with disabilities.

We aim to create an inclusive environment by being aware of and addressing potential barriers. This might involve adapting our communication methods or using accessible equipment to ensure that everyone feels welcome and supported.

Free tools to augment patient care

In 2025 there are ample digital tools that patrollers can use to support the care of differently abled patients we assist. They are all to provide inclusive care and to treat everyone with respect and quality advanced emergency care.