Kewaskum, WI – Fourteen skiers were safely rescued Friday evening after a power outage left a chair lift immobilized at Sunburst Ski Hill in Washington County, according to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities say the incident occurred around 5:36 p.m. on November 29, 2025, when the ski hill, located at 8355 Prospect Drive, reported a partial power failure that caused one of its lifts to stop with multiple riders onboard.
According to Sgt. Brad Rodich, Sunburst staff and ski patrol were already working on rescue efforts when they requested help from the Kewaskum Fire Department and sheriff’s deputies. Fire personnel arrived to assist with additional manpower and safety operations.
Responders determined 14 individuals were on the affected lift. Working together, Sunburst staff and Kewaskum firefighters used on-site rope rescue systems to safely lower everyone to the ground within about an hour of the initial call.
All those rescued were offered medical assessments at the scene but declined further assistance, officials said. The ski lift will undergo inspection before returning to service.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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