Author name: Matthew Vermeer

Caleb Kesterke does a transceiver check EVERY time he goes out and rides. A transceiver check includes the following: • Find a place away from conflicting transmitting devices. Stand in a half-circle, an arm’s length or more apart. The transceiver check-leader should be a few meters away in the middle of the group.• Turn transceivers on. As they power on, each individual checks that the transceiver runs a self-check and the display is ok. Note battery strength and report it aloud to the group.• Switch all transceivers to Search mode. Silence indicates that everyone is ready and ensures that no transmitting units are on dogs, sleds, or in packs.• The check-leader then switches to Transmit/Send. They check that each group member can receive a signal by walking toward each group member one by one. The group member reads their display out loud.• Turn all units to Transmit. The check-leader witnesses that each group member stows their unit for the day, secured under an outside layer, and 30 cm from cell phone or radio.• The check-leader returns to Search mode and confirms all group members are transmitting. The check-leader then switches to Transmit mode and confirms to at least one group member. They also verify that the check-leader’s device is stored under an outside later and 30cm from a cell phone or radio for the day.

You need to carry the proper avalanche gear each time you go into the backcountry today. It is vital that you have the correct education and avalanche equipment to make it back to the truck. Before you ride, be sure you have the following on your person:1. Avalanche transceiver2. Avalanche probe3. Avalanche shovel4. Satellite device5. Avalanche airbag (optional)