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Skiing

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.  

Preparing for Cold Weather and the Ski Season

Skiing is one of the most popular cold weather sports in the world. When done responsibly, skiing can be very safe; however it does present a number of unique safety challenges. In fact, the cold weather that makes skiing possible is itself a potential hazard. Fortunately, there are a few easy steps that anyone can take in order to protect themselves.

The Clothes

First of all, it’s essential to dress correctly. Frostbite and hypothermia can occur more easily than many people realize, especially if one neglects to dress in a warm, waterproof set of clothing. Long lasting exposure to cold weather can also weaken the body’s defenses, making one more susceptible to illnesses such as the cold or the flu. Here is a simple guide to dressing for a skiing outing:

The bottom layer: The bottom layer of clothing should be relatively tight fitting, and should be made of a wicking material. Wicking material is designed to draw sweat and other moisture away from the body. Synthetic materials such as polyester, polyethylene, and microfiber-based fabrics generally do the best job at wicking moisture, however wool has fairly effective wicking properties as well. Cotton is the worst material to use as a bottom layer, as its tends to lose its insulative quality when wet or damp.

The middle layer: The middle layer can vary depending on weather conditions–on warmer days you may wish to use lighter jackets and sweaters, whereas on colder days you can add more clothing.

The outer layer: The outer layer must be waterproof. This means a shell coat and ski pants (if there is any piece of clothing you should invest in specifically, it would be ski pants. There’s no replacing the value they offer). The smartest way to invest in outer layer clothing is to buy clothes with no built in insulation, that way they can be used in all weather conditions.

The Forecast

It is incredibly important to be aware of any potentially dangerous weather situations that could arise, which is why it’s important to check the forecast before hitting the slopes.

Beacon-Watch

From cold-weather skiing to extreme water sports, Beacon Watch is committed to helping sports enthusiasts of all kinds enjoy safe and responsible activities. Check out our website for more info on ski safety, boating safety, and our innovative line of sporting safety products.

Stay Safe on the Slopes

The number one cause of injury on the slopes every year is pulled or strained muscles, and the number one cause of death when downhill skiing or snowboarding is head injury, usually caused by hitting a stationary object. Although injuries are common, deaths are fortunately rare, but it nevertheless is important as each new season arrives for everybody to reacquaint themselves with some of the basic safety issues of the slopes.

Pulled muscles and tendons, twisted ankles, and other more minor injuries are usually the result of a person being out of shape when ski season arrives. If you’re a skier or a snowboarder, it’s important to keep up a regular exercise regimen all year by either going to the gym or by participating in summer sports. When ski season arrives, it is recommended that everyone – even the most weathered veteran – take a ski safety refresher course from a certified instructor. If you’re a novice, you should especially be certain that you know how to stop, how to fall down, and how to get back up. Be aware of weather conditions and wear proper clothing, and know the general rules and etiquette of the slopes.

One of the most important safety rules is this: never ski alone. If an injury happens, and you are alone or separated from your group, you can risk further complications or even death. This is why the SeaMe monitor by BeaconWatch can really ensure your safety when you or your loved ones are skiing. If necessary, this GPS system will help locate anyone who is injured or lost. It is a great device to have, especially when you are skiing with children, just to add an extra level of safety to your outing.

Check out the BeaconWatch site, and ski without worry this season knowing that you and your loved ones can never get lost on the slopes with BeaconWatch’s 21st century technology.

 

These 6 tips will help make your next ski outing both fun and safe!

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