Behind the scenes on the slopes with Jérôme, ski patroller in Méribel

In Méribel, they are the first to hit the slopes and the last to leave. For 20 years, Jérôme has been a ski patroller at Méribel Alpina. Rescue, prevention, information… He takes us along for a day at the heart of the ski area.

How did you become a ski patroller at Méribel Alpina?

“It’s a life journey, as it often is.

At first, I had started my studies — a master’s in AES — and then national service caught up with me. So I had to work a season to earn some money. My uncle was already working at Méribel Alpina, so I joined the ski lift operations.

I discovered a world that immediately appealed to me. At that time, I was more of a footballer than a skier. Skiing was a bit in the background. But while working on the mountain, I saw the ski patrollers in action and felt that their job was different.

There was a patroller system. You could join the piste team with some time allowed to obtain the diploma. If a position opened up, you could stay. I immediately seized that opportunity.”

How long have you been with Méribel Alpina?

“It’s been about twenty years now. At first, it was a matter of circumstances. Today, it’s become a vocation — a job I love deeply and one I’m not ready to leave.”

Could you do something else in the winter?

“Honestly, no. I really feel at home where I am. Time passes, but I continue to work with young people. The job evolves, the team evolves, and that’s what keeps it alive.

Rescue work provides a real adrenaline rush. There are very intense moments, especially as a team. We share intense situations. We build strong bonds. We also meet amazing people.

It’s a technical and demanding job, but also very human. I can’t imagine doing anything else.”

Has the job changed over the years?

“Yes, it has evolved. You can now be a ski patroller-rescuer or an avalanche technician. That aspect used to be one of the big adrenaline boosts of the job.

Today, the focus is on minimizing risk as much as possible. Avalanche work is therefore less frequent than before. The evolution goes in the direction of safety, which is a good thing.

And here in Méribel, we’re in a resort that remains relatively safe.”

What happens once the slopes are open?

“Once the slopes open, we gather at the chalet for a briefing. Everyone shares their observations. The chief gives us the main points for the day and any special instructions. This moment is important for getting an overall picture.

Then we go out on patrol. Our informational role is increasingly important. Many guests don’t really know who we are. So we approach them, show that we’re available, and provide guidance on snow conditions, routes, or walks.

And, of course, we remain ready to intervene for rescues. That remains one of our main responsibilities.”

How is the team organized on a daily basis?

“We are 10 on the sector.

Each day, one patroller is on duty. They are responsible for emergency calls, meaning they are the first to respond or decide which colleague closest to the incident should be called.

We also check all our equipment. Rescue and detection devices, like the RECCO system, must always be operational.

We exchange information about the slope conditions as well. This time for sharing allows us to coordinate before heading out, often in pairs, each focused on their specific tasks.”

What does a day in the field look like?

“On the slopes, safety is constant.

We might:

  • Put a marker back in place after it’s been moved.

  • Check a protective pad to ensure it properly shields a metal pole.

  • Install signs to indicate a crossing zone and slow skiers down.

  • Mark an area with rocks or hard snow.

The goal is always the same: to prevent collisions.

One colleague handles checking and preparing rescue equipment. Meanwhile, we may raise safety nets or work in pairs on specific tasks. There are also avalanche beacon (DVA) training exercises for victim searches.

And then there are the encounters: people in difficulty, guests looking for a route, or others asking for advice. We help them, inform them, and guide them.

No two days are ever really the same.”

What makes you the most proud in this job?

“The feeling of being useful, without a doubt.Feedback from people is invaluable, whether it’s after a rescue or simply after giving some information. At the end of the day, when we close the slopes, some guests are tired or lost. In foggy or difficult conditions, we guide them back onto the right path. They’re genuinely relieved to see us.It’s in these moments that you really understand the meaning of our work.”

What advice would you give to someone who wants to become a ski patroller?

“I’d say you have to do it with passion.Those who truly want this job will naturally have that drive. For those who feel apprehensive about rescue work, you often discover your own reactions on the spot, in the moment when the situation arises.For me, it was a real discovery. I quickly felt that I enjoyed it.You have to give it a try: the working conditions are beautiful. And, deep down, we’re made to be outside.”

Preventing, securing, rescuing, informing… Being a ski patroller in Méribel is much more than a job. It’s a vocation. Every day, Jérôme and his colleagues watch over the ski area so that everyone can enjoy the mountains in complete safety and peace of mind.

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