I just read on WildSnow.com about a young snowboarder who died in an avalanche this past Sunday in Colorado’s Berthoud Pass. He was not prepared at all. He headed out for a ride without any safety gear. The article claims that safety gear probably would not have saved him. This mentality of early season skiing was the problem in the first place.

“There is no minimum amount of snow necessary to produce an avalanche.” Snow Sense, Jill Fredston & Doug Fesler

We see it all the time here in Jackson. A 15-minute drive puts you up at the top of Teton Pass. Within minutes you can start making turns. The resorts are not open yet and all the “new” schoolers who have moved here for the ski season head up to the backcountry because they see everyone else doing it. These people tend to have no safety gear and no education in avalanche awareness. It is a scary situation. Do not get me wrong, many “experienced” backcountry travelers take early season risks also. Experience does not always mean smart.

I BEG all of you….please take the time to learn about avalanche safety. TAKE A CLASS!!! Go to your local ski shop and ask about info on local avalanche courses. Purchase the safety equipment that you will need to make smart decisions. This includes beacon, probe, shovel, snow study kit, and backcountry survival kit just to name a few. Purchase these items before your class so you can get used to using them. There are many different products out there so please visit your local backcountry shop to give you some advice. Even experts in snow science can always practice and learn more. Preserving your life and lives of others is never a finished task. PLEASE be smart.