“Evacuations usually occur no more than once every 30 years,” Burkley says. “Hopefully, if you're doing your lift maintenance correctly, you really should not have evacuations more frequently than that.” So, if you're stuck on a chairlift, know that resort operators are well trained to get you down safely.

Yes, it is entirely possible to get stuck on a ski lift, though modern engineering makes such events rare. Stoppages are usually brief and caused by mechanical glitches, power outages, or high winds that trigger safety sensors. In most cases, operators use backup diesel engines or auxiliary generators to "clear the line" and get passengers to the nearest station within minutes. However, in rare instances of a total mechanical failure, a mechanical evacuation may be required. During this process, highly trained ski patrollers or rescue teams use specialized ropes and harnesses to lower passengers one by one from their chairs to the ground—a process that can take several hours depending on the lift's length and height. It is crucial to remain calm, stay seated, and follow all instructions from the mountain staff. While being stranded in freezing temperatures is a daunting thought, resorts are required to have rigorous evacuation plans and specialized equipment to ensure every guest is brought down safely.