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We all love a good day in the mountains but knowing what days are safe to head into the backcountry and when to keep it inbounds at the resort is crucial. Having the gear doesn’t mean you’re ready to get out there. Be prepared and know your partner(s) are too.
"Always go into the backcountry with a flexible mindset. Its ok to bail on a line or change your plans if the mountains telling you it's not safe, or if someone in the group is not comfortable with the conditions." - 686 Team Rider, Zoë Vernon
Be aware that avalanches are not the only risk out there and there will not be ski patrol to mark the hazardous areas or rescue you or a friend. You will be relying on each other to make the right decisions and be there for one another if something goes wrong.
The most common and gold standard to get started is the AIARE 1 certification. The AIRE 1 is typically a 3 day course that provides a solid basis to start moving in the backcountry. Expect to spend time learning in a classroom and gain hands on experience on the snow.
At the end of every AIARE 1 course, the student should be able to:
Have an Educated Partner
Moving in the backcountry alone is never a good decision and can be a fatal mistake. It’s very important to have a well-educated partner to make proper decisions with and feel confident in their ability to rescue you if a situation were to arise.
"You are only as prepared as your weakest link in the crew. Getting your snow safety education is all for the people you are out with. Take a class, get your education and make sure your riding partner has the education too. It makes the whole experience that much better to know that you are out there for each other." - 686 Team Manager, Patrick McCarthy
"Always start with the Beacon, Probe, and Shovel. A little thing I like to do is carry extra AAA batteries." - Patrick McCarthy
Everyone develops their own tips and tricks for what they like to carry but everyone in your group should at least have the basics. (BEACON. SHOVEL. PROBE.) It is always a good idea to talk with your partners about what they are bringing and check their beacon/transceiver to be sure it has full battery. Remember these are the people you are relying on and their preparation may save your life.
"I always look to have trustworthy partners, a slope reader, 686 Insulator Layer to stay warm, one set of extra gloves is a big key for me." - Fancy Ruthford
Packing the night before helps to avoid forgetting something. Always double check that your beacon has full battery before you go out.
For more information check out these other resources: