Safety First

WorkSafeBC has recently reminded the employees of backcountry operations to keep an extra close eye on avalanche conditions this month, and continue to “identify, assess and mitigate” the risks associated with working in and around avalanche terrain.
 
Appropriately timed, weather conditions have started to awaken some “lurking dragons” in the snowpack, as surface hoar layers begin to react to natural, human and remote triggers.
 
If you’re going into the backcountry bring a friend who you can nerd out on snow science with. Take your time and learn from what you are seeing, hearing and feeling in the snow. Have a well-planned and well-rehearsed procedure of what to do if you or someone you’re with has to yell, “AVALANCHE!” And make good choices when route selecting, even if route deviations have you home, or in the bar for après ski earlier than expected.

Photo: Bradley Moore