Delayed Rescue, Girl's Death Spurs Safety Reforms

A young girl's death in Quebec's Outaouais region has prompted a coroner to recommend crucial safety enhancements for off-road parks. The four-year-old victim suffered a fatal head injury in February on a Nakkertok Park ski trail after a family member lost balance and fell on her while she was on a sled. She was not wearing a helmet.

The incident, ruled an accident, has brought to light critical issues with emergency response times. The initial 911 call was made at 11:19 a.m., but it took approximately 25 minutes for first responders to reach the child. Despite immediate CPR from a nurse on the trail, significant delays in reaching the ambulance and then the hospital meant the girl was in cardiac arrest for nearly two hours.

The coroner's report cited difficulties in accurately locating the site due to incomplete information and a lack of clear address visibility. First responders also encountered challenges with necessary equipment, requiring a return trip for an ATV. Recommendations have been made to both the Municipality of Val-des-Monts and Nakkertok Park regarding improved signage, training, and equipment availability.

The municipality has already begun implementing measures, including water and ice training for responders, and acquiring an ambulance sled. A coordination committee involving various stakeholders has been formed to enhance park safety protocols going forward.