**NEAR-MISS ON THE SLOPES: SKI PATROL MEMBER DODGES DEER AT NEW MEXICO RESORT**
A harrowing close call was caught on camera at a popular ski resort in New Mexico, where a ski patrol member narrowly avoided being struck by a deer careening down the mountain.
The incident occurred at Angel Fire Resort, a well-known ski destination in the southern Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Ski patrol member, who wishes to remain anonymous, was skiing down the slope on a routine patrol when he suddenly found himself face-to-face with a deer.
“I was just cruising along, doing my thing, when out of nowhere this deer comes bounding down the hill towards me,” the ski patrol member recalled in an interview. “I was able to react quickly and get out of the way just in time.”
The dramatic encounter was captured on the ski patrol member’s camera, which shows the deer bounding down the slope, its large eyes fixed on the skier. The camera footage reveals the deer, startled by the skier’s presence, suddenly changing direction and narrowly missing the ski patrol member.
“It was a really close call,” the ski patrol member said, still shaken by the experience. “I’ve been skiing and patrolling these slopes for years, but I’ve never had a close encounter like that before.”
The ski patrol member’s quick reflexes undoubtedly saved him from a potentially serious collision. Deer are known to be unpredictable and can be a hazard to skiers, especially during the winter months when they are more active.
Angel Fire Resort officials have issued a reminder to skiers and snowboarders to be aware of their surroundings and watch for wildlife, especially during early morning and late evening hours when deer are most active.
The ski patrol member, grateful for the narrow escape, has urged others to exercise caution while skiing or snowboarding in areas where wildlife may be present.
**VIDEO FOOTAGE**
[Insert video footage of the close call]
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of being aware of one’s surroundings while enjoying winter sports in areas where wildlife may be present.
**PHOTO**
[Insert photo of the deer]
**Related Stories:**
* Wildlife Encounters on the Slopes: A Growing Concern
* Skiers and Snowboarders Warned to Be on the Lookout for Wildlife
**Safety Tips:**
* Be aware of your surroundings and watch for wildlife
* Keep a safe distance from wildlife
* Make noise while skiing or snowboarding to avoid startling animals
* Stay on marked trails and avoid venturing into areas with known wildlife activity
