As someone who lives in Summit County and recreates in the high country, one should be very aware of the threat of avalanches. Mother Nature’s gift of snow also brings a reality of potential dangers in our mountain recreational areas.
To educate yourself, could save your life. Here is the link to the various backcountry AIARE approved classes.
There are many avalanche education classes throughout the winter. These classes offer a basic understanding of snow conditions, how to know what is avalanche prone, and a hands-on approach with equipment training. I took the AIARE class tailored to snowmobiling at Rabbit Ears Pass. It was three days of everything avalanche safety.
I took this specific class: backcountryawareness.org
My biggest takeaways from my avalanche classes….
- I’m really lucky to be alive (LOL)
- Reduce risk: plan ahead
- Pack for success: checklist
- Travel into the backcountry with life saving equipment
- Knowledge of what to look for and stay away from
- Travel safe