Beacon Watch

boats, safety, sports

Backcountry Skiing

7 Rules to Help you Stay Safe in Any Situation

Google “Skiing Safety” and the first several pages worth of results will be virtually nothing but downhill skiing related. On a certain level, this makes sense–after all, there are many inherent dangers of downhill skiing that are unique to the sport. That being said, cross-country skiing still carries its own risks, and it’s important to be aware of them before embarking on a cross-country ski outing. Here are 7 important rules that can help keep you safe!

  • Before heading out, make sure that someone not on the skiing expedition knows where you are going and when you plan on returning.  Should any kind of emergency arise, you’ll be glad you did.
  • If you will be skiing on unmarked trails, it’s important to bring a map, a compass, and possibly other means of ascertaining your location.
  • If you plan on being out for a significant amount of time, it is usually a good idea to bring both food and drinks in order to prevent dehydration and/or low blood sugar.
  • Dress warm!  Remember, it’s always easier to take off a layer than it is to go back home for more!
  • Obey all posted signs, especially those regarding rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water. Unless specifically stated otherwise, always assume that frozen bodies of water are unsafe!
  • Stay in groups! Groups of three or more are ideal, that way should one skier encounter an emergency situation an/or injury, he/she will have someone to stay with them while the other goes for help.
  • Be aware of the right of way! Always exercise caution when passing other skiers, especially when on a downhill trajectory.

For more important information on ski safety and ski safety equipment, visit the Beacon Watch website. Stay safe!

Rules for Skiing

Someone once said “rules are made to be broken,” however, some rules are definitely made to be followed! Anyone who gets behind the wheel of a car, for example, must follow the rules of the road in order to make driving safe and pleasant for everyone. Similarly, anyone who enjoys skiing in places with other skiers should learn a few basic rules of safety and courtesy in order to ensure that skiing is both safe and pleasant. (And it should go without saying that skiing is much more pleasant than commuting in the first place!) These rules may not be formally encoded in the way that driving laws are, however, they remain the same in almost all skiing locations. Here are a few of the most important rules to keep in mind.

  • Be aware of your own abilities, and stay in control. Don’t put yourself in situations where you are a danger to yourself or others.
  • Obey all posted signs! These will vary from place to place, however they are there for a reason, and ignoring them constitutes a blatant disregard for safety.
  • Avoid stopping on or otherwise obstructing the path of other skiers.
  • Anyone in front of you has the right of way. It is your responsibility to watch out for them, as they cannot see you.
  • If you are merging onto a trail, however, you must look uphill and yield to any oncoming skiers.
  • Do not ski under the influence of drugs or alcohol!
  • Have care when riding ski lifts. If you are uncertain of how to load your equipment, ask for help before “going for it.”
  • If you are involved in or witness an accident, do not leave until you are certain that everyone is okay. Contact the proper authorities if necessary.

For more information on ski safety, check out the Beacon Watch blog or visit our main page!

 

Backcountry Skiing: Have A Solid Pre-Plan

For the experienced skier, backcountry skiing can provide some of the most fun and satisfying adventures of a lifetime; however, skiing “off the beaten path” is also inherently dangerous. Perhaps the best way to make your outings as safe as possible is to have a solid pre-plan that everyone in the group is aware of and that provides a course of action just in case any mishaps occur along the way. Here is a brief list of some of the things that should be taken into account as you plan your next expedition.

  • Most importantly you need to designate a “responsible person” or “RP.” Your RP is someone who is NOT going on the trip with the group but who is aware of where you are going, when you are leaving, and when you are expected to return. They should have not only your phone numbers but also any emergency numbers they need. If anything goes wrong, or your group doesn’t return by a preset time, this person is responsible for getting help.
  • Also, before your outing you need to check the weather, check any available avalanche bulletins, and talk with locals like the ski patrol about your trip.
  • Everyone in the group should have first aid training and avalanche safety training.
  • Your group should consider hiring a guide, especially if you are new to the area or unfamiliar with the backcountry.
  • Finally, you should seriously consider purchasing a GPS locating device like the SeaMe monitor from BeaconWatch.  This little monitor inconspicuously attaches to your clothing and allows others to easily locate you if you’re lost or injured. It’s great to have both for the sake of convenience and especially for the sake of safety.

Backcountry skiing can truly provide an experience on the slopes that is unlike any other. Just remember to be properly prepared for the unexpected  — having a great pre-plan and the affordable SeaMe monitor will help you to stay safe during all your fun adventures in the backcountry.