Mountain safety

The Glissades des Pays d'en Haut is continually changing and improving. Our vast experience with state-of-the-art technology means increased client safety. Here are some of the ways safety is maintained throughout the site:

Automatic Safety Barriers

Most runs are equipped with an automatic safety barrier with an electric eye that monitors the movement of each person when sliding. A signal is automatically sent to close the barrier. A timer controls when the barrier reopens. A manual override allows the time to be extended if necessary. Barriers are covered with shock absorbing material to avoid injury and are all monitored at a central control station.

Safety Signs

Several safety signs have been placed in strategic areas with the site rules and regulations.   Pictograms at the start of runs illustrate the correct and incorrect ways of tubing as well as the maximum number of persons permitted for a run (which could vary throughout the day) Runs at the second level are reserved for those measuring 1.32 m (52’’) or more; two signs have been placed at the first level for measuring purposes before going up.

Surveillance Cameras

Control posts are equipped with surveillance cameras that allow patrols to have a complete view of each run in order to identify which are free and which are not.    

Rapid Communication System

All patrols and first-aid attendants use two-way radios and can communicate on different frequencies very quickly. Patrols at the bottom of runs use megaphones to communicate safety messages to clients and those at control posts use the public address system. All patrol stations and lift stations have emergency telephones.

Rafting Slope: Maximum Security

The rafting slope was designed with client safety in mind. Employees situated at the base and the top of the slope ensure safety at all times. They communicate with each other with the help of two-way radios in order to control and signal departures and arrivals.  Each run is equipped with a safety barrier to prevent canoes from sliding down. A control panel manages the entire automatic barrier system.

Lifts

Each lift is inspected on a yearly basis. Operators at the bottom and top of lifts are always available to help clients who need help. They can stop the lift at any time with the provided emergency button. When there are numerous small children, we reduce the speed of the magic carpets in order to make it easier to get on and off.

State-of-the-art Equipment

Over the years, the Glissades des Pays d'en Haut has acquired state-of-the art equipment to ensure consistency of run speed and safety.  Snow groomers are inspected on a yearly basis and a mechanic is permanently present to ensure that all runs smoothly.  Several different techniques are used to maintain the state of runs according to company safety standards.