Target: Debra Lee, Chief of California Occupational Safety and Health
Goal: Enact more rigorous guidelines for businesses to follow in relation to natural disaster warning systems.
Multiple skiers were killed during an avalanche in Nevada County, California. The sheriff’s department has opened an investigation into why both an avalanche watch and an avalanche warning were reportedly ignored. The group of skiers was apparently being led by Blackbird Mountain Guides.
This tragedy unfortunately demonstrates how – even when warnings are in place for imminent natural disasters – the alerts are apparently often not heeded. A similar situation unfolded in the midst of widespread Texas flooding the previous year, and likewise during earlier flooding in Tennessee. With California’s history of environmentally related disasters – from wildfires to earthquakes – more should and must be done to create a strong set of standards for abiding by these warning systems, especially when professional businesses are involved.
Sign the petition below to urge full adoption and implementation of such standards.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Chief Lee,
With the recent tragic avalanche-related deaths, word has come that an investigation into possible negligence is underway. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of not only providing early warning systems but of ensuring these warnings are followed. When companies promote services that involve close interaction with the outdoors, they must do so with the proper safeguards in place. Professional services invoke a certain level of trust and belief in the expertise of the individuals associated with the venture.
These service providers should carry an extra level of responsibility, especially in regard to providing clients proper forewarning about natural disasters that are predicted. Lives of both consumers and employees are on the line. Please make strict observance of warning systems and concrete protocols mandatory for tourism-based endeavors. California, arguably more than most other regions in the country, knows firsthand the devastation of Mother Nature’s fury.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: Dajana Reçi
