You are on your own when you step outside the boundaries.
Life-saving knowledge is needed. Recognize the dangers.
Proper gear is needed. Shovel, probe avalanche beacon.
Real training Learn and practice avalanche rescue.
Expert skiers need training too!
Sidecountry Safety Class
Sidecountry skiing = lift accessed, remote resort area skiing and lift accessed backcountry skiing with little or no patrolling by Ski Patrollers.
With the advent of wide, shaped, skis, many more skiers feel capable of tackling the difficult snow conditions found beyond the groomed runs. Away from the crowds and lift lines, you can experience fine powder snow, and the beauty and isolation of remote snowy mountains.
But there is risk involved in accessing the sidecountry and it is important to take mountain knowledge with you when you go. The Sidecountry Safety Class is for people who are ready to venture farther out but have little awareness of the hazards to be confronted such as cliffs, tree wells, avalanches and the risk of getting lost. The class begins with a two-hour slide presentation and discussion followed by an on-snow training session. During this workshop students will learn transceiver use and avalanche rescue leadership through hands-on practice and realistic scenarios. Remember: Never cross rope lines, obey Ski Patrol signs and get training.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO!
Ridge Explorations Sidecountry Safety class (SCS) goals:
To introduce the concepts of avalanche safety in sidecountry (similar to backcountry) i.e. situational awareness and safe decision making.
To introduce basic avalanche safety practices common to backcountry travelers (observation of terrain, snowpack and weather).
To introduce and teach tree-well awareness and safety.
To introduce human factors and their importance in backcountry accidents.
To train participants in companion rescue with on-snow training scenarios.
The Ridge Explorations Sidecountry Safety Class Details:
Meeting time is 830am. Two-hour slideshow and discussion held in Crystal Mountain Day Lodge - Bullwheel Restaurant (upstairs-top floor) and other locations TBA
Group then meets at top of Quicksilver Chair at 12pm. If you have a Season Pass, that will get you on the chair. Otherwise, BRING $20 CASH FOR A ONE-RIDE LIFT TICKET (2012 price).
If you are renting a beacon from us, please BRING $15 CASH.
Rescue training at Henskin Lake. Less than 1/4 mile hike (sidestep/skate in downhill skis, touring skis with skins or snowshoes). Finish about 2pm
One-day program includes 2 hours class and on-snow rescue training
Cost: $125 per person (Lift ticket NOT included) (Beacon rental NOT included)
To register Phone: 253-891-0149 or
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or use PayPal!
Common Sense Disclaimer: General Awareness does not take the place of a formal multi-day avalanche training class. Evaluating terrain is complex. Evaluating snow stability is even more complex.
Testimonial from Snowperformance:
Don Langlois, with Ridge Explorations, recently ran an avalanche awareness training day for our staff to give them more mountain danger awareness and hands on practical recovery skills. They are all very experienced, fully certified Leve 3 instructors who have high expectations of any training they get, all gave very positive feedback which included the following:
“It was informative and interesting, humbling and a bit intimidating; the knowledge that there is so much more to learn and practice.”
“Don was engaging and did a good job ‘teaching’ through the practical searches and scenarios in the field w/a ‘how do you think it went’ group discussion to prepare us for the ‘IF’.”
“I thought Don was great. Awesome feedback and lots of hands on practice.”
“We were not bored in the indoor presentation or the out, as the information was fascinating, factual and was delivered in highly proactive and personalized format.”
I would highly recommend using Don to train both individuals and groups in Mountain safety awareness,
Gavin Kerr Hunter Director Snowperformance 16810 Crystal Drive E Crystal Mountain WA 98022 360 663 0298 cell 253 569 3713 www.snowperformance.com
