avalanche

This web page should not give you a false sense of security! You are responsible for your personal safety and
the safety of those in your group. You should not venture into the backcountry without first taking a
comprehensive avalanche course. Having all the right equipment is great - but you need to know how itworks
and how to properly implement it. Help can be hours away when you are recreating in the winter backcountry.
Your life depends on your buddies knowing what to do in case of an emergency. Pick your backcountry travel
friends accordingly.

Along with your ten essentials, make certain to carry a beacon,
probe, and shovel. PRACTICE using these tools before heading
out. They are of no use if you do not know how to properly use
them. Click on photo below to see backcountry esssentials.

Mt. Baker Avalanche Survival Story
Backcountry guide and snowboard pro, Craig Kelly, was killed along with
6 other backcountry boarders on January 20, 2003. Kelly was a
well-respected and knowledgeable backcountry guide. Click here to
read the case report.

Traveling in the backcountry can be both beautiful and dangerous. Pick
those you travel with wisely. Do they have backcountry experience and
rescue equipment? Do they know how to respond in an emergency? If
you are buried in an avalanche, will your friends know how to act? You
and your buddies should take 15 minutes before hitting the backcountry.
Practice a mock burial using a backpack and a beacon.

Every year on the Cle Elum Ranger District, people
are hurt or killed in avalanches. Please KNOW
BEFORE YOU GO!
EDUCATE YOURSELF
Attend avalanche classes. Local ski resorts, REI,
and outdoor organizations frequently hold training
classes.
PLAN YOUR TRIP
Check the NW Avalanche Center before heading
out on your trip. Select appropriate routes for the
current conditions. Be willing to change your plans
if avalanche conditions are moderate to extreme.
KNOW YOUR GROUP
Recreate with people who have avalanche training
and are respectful for mountain hazards. Don't
recreate with big egos.
RESPECT INDIVIDUAL CONCERNS
Often times our "sixth sense" knows best. When
you, or someone else in your group, voices a
concern about a route or conditions, heed the
warning and adjust your plans.
REST AND CONGREGATE IN SAFE ZONES
Avoid stopping in areas exposed to avalanche
danger. Sometimes, the most scenic area to have
lunch can also be the most deadly.
BE PREPARED!
Carry and know how to use all your safety
equipment. Before you head out, have a safety
meeting and develop a plan with each and every
person in your party. DO NOT DEPEND ON YOUR
GEAR TO SAVE YOU! KNOW HOW TO USE IT!