Killington Search and Rescue Shares Life Saving Tips for Backcountry Skiers

"The number one step to staying safe while ski touring or splitboarding is making sure you prepare. Tell someone your plan before you head out, including your route and when you expect to return. Bring any essential gear like a fully charged cell phone with at least a backup battery, warm extra layers, mittens and a hat, two headlamps, food, at least a bottle of water, an emergency space blanket, and a small first aid kit."

"If there's an emergency, call 911 as soon as possible. Be ready to share your exact location by using your phone's Compass app and sending a screenshot with GPS coordinates. Tell dispatchers about your condition, including when you last ate, your water supply, and whether you are cold or wet, so rescuers can prepare properly."

"To preserve phone battery life, keep your phone warm in a pocket close to your body and follow dispatch instructions, which may include turning it off periodically. Avoid unnecessary phone use. While waiting for rescue, focus on self care by eating, hydrating, and putting on dry, warm layers to stay as comfortable and safe as possible until help arrives."

Backcountry skiing and ski touring require thorough preparation to prevent dangerous situations. Before heading out, inform someone of your planned route and expected return time. Essential gear includes a fully charged cell phone with backup battery, warm layers, headlamps, food, water, emergency blanket, and first aid kit. In emergencies, call 911 immediately and provide exact GPS coordinates using your phone's Compass app. Inform dispatchers of your condition, food intake, water supply, and temperature status. Preserve battery life by keeping the phone warm and following dispatch instructions. While awaiting rescue, prioritize self-care through eating, hydrating, and changing into dry, warm clothing.

Read at Unofficial Networks