Backcountry adventure: Hope for the best, Plan for the worst
When embarking on a backcountry adventure, whether it's backcountry skiing, snowboarding, hiking, camping, or any other outdoor activity, it's essential to be prepared for emergencies and know when to call for help. Safety must be your top priority.
SENDY highly suggests calling for help in the following backcountry situations:
Medical Emergencies: carry a first aid kit & be trained in CPR
Severe injuries, such as broken bones, head injuries, or deep wounds.
Signs of hypothermia or frostbite.
Cardiac issues, shortness of breath, or severe chest pain.
Loss of consciousness or severe disorientation.
Avalanche or Snow Safety Concerns:
If you or someone in your group gets caught in an avalanche, locate them through avalanche vest signals and probes (collapoles) and call for help immediately. If you witness an avalanche or suspect that others might be trapped, contact authorities.
Lost or Disoriented:
If you're lost and unable to find your way back to your intended route or shelter or iIf you've been wandering in the backcountry for an extended period without success in finding your way. Carry a compass, and walk downhill as you will eventually reach a creek bed or road.
Depleted Supplies or Equipment Failure:
Running out of essential supplies, such as food, water, or appropriate clothing, or equipment failure that leaves you unable to continue safely, such as a broken ski binding or snowshoe.
Severe Weather:
If you're caught in a severe storm, blizzard, or other extreme weather conditions that jeopardize your safety, or in any situation where exposure to extreme cold or wind chill could lead to hypothermia or frostbite. Carry Mylar thermal blankets and extra water.
Animal Encounters:
If you encounter aggressive or dangerous wildlife and are unable to safely retreat or deter them. Carry bear spray.
Communication Failures:
If you're in an area with no cell phone reception, use a SAT phone, radio, rocket flare or bonfire with smoke signals. Carry matches.
Concerns for Others:
If you come across other backcountry enthusiasts who appear to be in distress, injured, or lost, call for help on their behalf.
When calling for help in the backcountry, follow these guidelines:
Always prioritize your safety and the safety of your group. Ensure that everyone is in a safe location and protected from the elements.
Use a satellite communicator (SAT phone), if available, as it may work even in areas with no cell phone reception.
If you have cell phone reception, call 911 or the emergency number in your country.
Provide precise information about your location, the nature of the emergency, the number of people in your group, and any relevant medical conditions or injuries.
Follow any instructions given by emergency responders and be prepared to provide additional information if needed.
Stay where you are and do not attempt to move an injured person unless it is absolutely necessary for their safety.
Remember that backcountry adventures can be unpredictable, and it's crucial to be well-prepared with the right equipment, skills, and knowledge to minimize risks. Additionally, always inform someone about your plans, including your expected return time, route, and destination, so that they can initiate a search or call for help if you don't return as planned.
