BOZEMAN, Mont. — With dangerous weather conditions, Gallatin County Search and Rescue wants recreationists to prepare for a good day going bad.
They posted some tips on social media for how to stay safe in the backcountry.
They say always ride with a partner and know your trails.
Check the avalanche report before you go and practice your avalanche rescue skills.
Ride to your ability and be ready to turn around if the weather or terrain is more than you planned for.
Search and Rescue commander Capt. Scott Secor says they posted their tips now because the weather is changing.
“We had a couple of rescues in Big Sky over the last, this month, due to people venturing out. So it’s the time of year where people are starting to get out into the snow and the cold, so we thought it was the perfect time to do that. It just felt like the timing was right,” Secor said.
They also added to always carry:
- Communication devices – GPS locator device and a charged cell phone
- Maps, paper and electronic
- Compass (GPS batteries drain)
- Tool kit for simple repairs
- Probe pole, transceiver, and a shovel (in case of avalanche or for digging a snow cave)
- Whistle (easier to whistle than to yell and the sound travels farther)
- Matches, lighter, fire starter, and flashlight
- Food and water
- Extra clothing, including extra socks, gloves and a hat, in case you get wet or have to spend the night out
- Anything else you might need in case of emergency, such as daily medication
- If you get in trouble, don’t wait until it gets dark to call us. If you have cell service, dial 911 so we can get a GPS coordinate from cell tower ping; that will get us to you faster.
