The community of Wakefield, Quebec, and the city of Ottawa are in mourning following the tragic death of a 13-year-old girl after a chairlift accident at Centre Vorlage. The incident, which occurred during a school-sanctioned field trip, has prompted immediate safety reviews and the suspension of similar excursions across the region.
Details of the Incident
On Wednesday, 11 February 2026, a 13-year-old student from an Ottawa-area school was critically injured while dismounting a chairlift at the Vorlage ski hill. According to police reports and witness accounts, a piece of the student’s clothing—identified by some sources as a hoodie—became entangled in the chairlift mechanism.
The girl was rushed to the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) in critical condition. Despite the efforts of medical staff, her family confirmed that she passed away four days later, on 15 February 2026, due to the severity of her injuries.
School Board Response
In the immediate aftermath of the accident, the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board (OCDSB) took decisive action to protect other students. The board has officially cancelled all upcoming ski trips that involve the use of chairlifts. While the Ottawa Catholic School Board has not yet issued a system-wide directive, they are closely monitoring the situation.
The OCDSB stated that the safety of students is their primary concern and that the suspension of these trips will remain in effect while a full investigation into the safety protocols of local ski hills is conducted.
Status of Centre Vorlage
Centre Vorlage, located in the Outaouais region near Wakefield, closed its operations immediately following the mishap to allow for a thorough investigation by provincial authorities and safety inspectors. Management at the hill has expressed their deepest condolences to the family and friends of the student.
As of 15 February 2026, the ski hill has announced plans to begin a gradual reopening starting Monday. This phased return to operations follows a review of equipment and safety procedures to ensure compliance with provincial standards.
Safety Precautions for Skiers
This tragedy has reignited discussions regarding ski lift safety and the risks posed by loose clothing. Safety experts recommend the following precautions for students and recreational skiers:
- Avoid Loose Clothing: Ensure that scarves, long drawstrings, and hoodies are tucked inside jackets to prevent entanglement in lift machinery.
- Follow Dismount Protocols: Pay close attention to lift operator instructions and signage when approaching the off-loading ramp.
- Equipment Checks: Ensure all gear is properly fitted and that no straps are dangling from backpacks or helmets.
Last Updated: 15 February 2026