Snow Safety

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)

An avalanche is a scary thing! But they are showing to be a greater concern when heading into the backcountry. Therefore, it is important for backcountry users to become familiar with them. It is also important to know how to carry out an avalanche rescue. One of the most important aspects of emergency rescue scenarios is taking care of your own safety first. You are no good to the rescue effort if you are also a victim. Prepare for the worst and know what to do if you are the victim in an avalanche. If you notice the slope beginning to slide, get to safety if possible and then look for the rest of your party. If you feel yourself getting caught: • Yell! Call out for attention.• Your backcountry partners should always have eyes on the person exposed to the avalanche hazard. If your team can establish a last point seen, it will improve your chances of being found quickly.• Deploy your airbag.• Don’t hesitate to do this. The airbag will not affect your ability to yell or exit to the side of the avalanche.• Try to exit to the side of the avalanche.• Slide or roll towards the sides of the avalanche. Snow moves more slowly at the edges of the avalanche. You increase your chances of not being carried as far.• Try to arrest as you’re caught.• If you fail to escape to the side of an avalanche, grab bushes or trees, or arrest yourself in the bed surface in an effort to slow yourself down. This might allow the moving snow to flow around you and leave you high on the slope.

Terrain selection for your backcountry travel is vital. Not only does it help with your safety throughout your ride, but it also helps indicate whether you might make it back to the truck or not at the end of the day. Here are three keys for selecting your riding terrain: Selecting the right terrain for snowmobiling is crucial for safety, enjoyment, and optimal performance. Here’s a step-by-step guide for choosing the best snowmobile riding terrain: 1. Assess the Skill Level of Your Riding Group 2. Consider the Current Snow Conditions 3. Evaluate the Terrain’s Topography

Avalanche safety is vital when going into the mountains! When you head into the backcountry on a snowmobile, 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) Dura Deck takes pride in being prepared for the backcountry and the safety of all riders.