IF you're heading into the backcountry it's important to be prepared and inform yourself to manage the risks and keep yourself safe.
Below are some important factors to consider before you go exploring in the springtime.
Equipment:
While our avalanche risk is not as significant as some other places in the world, you should always carry and be familiar with the use of an avalanche beacon, shovel and a probe in your touring kit.
Practice is essential with these tools, as you don’t want the first time you're using your equipment to be in an emergency.
Carry a first aid kit and have an emergency plan of action.
Navigation:
Carry a map, a compass and develop a plan.
Make sure to inform someone of your plan and your expected return time.
Let ski patrol or a responsible friend know where you are heading and your plan for the day so if something goes wrong, a rescue party knows when and where to begin looking.
Weather conditions:
The weather in the mountains can change in a matter of minutes, so don't expect that the conditions you start the day with will remain consistent.
Carry extra warm layers, waterproofs and seek shelter if the weather closes in.
Be willing to adapt your plan to the conditions; the first goal of any trip is to return home safely.
Snow conditions:
Similar to the weather, the snow can change very quickly as the day warms or cools.
If the temperature suddenly drops, terrain you might have otherwise been able to manage when soft can become icy and dangerous.
Familiarise yourself with the snow conditions by reading the daily backcountry report and pay attention to any likely changes that may occur during the day.
Physical fitness:
Know your own level of fitness and limits, and plan to have something left in the tank when you return.
Fatigue can increase the level of risk of any technical sections of your trip, and also impact decision making and your ability to manage an emergency.
Local knowledge:
Avail yourself of the wealth of knowledge in the area by asking some experienced backcountry folks for their advice on your plan.
Ski patrol are a great resource for this.
Engage in formal learning:
Knowledge is power.
Blizzard Academy run Avalanche Safety and Awareness courses out of Hotham, where you can develop your skills to manage challenging conditions in the mountains and make informed decisions around snowpack and conditions.
They’re also a lot of fun and a great way to meet fellow backcountry enthusiasts.
Respect the environment:
Leave no trace, be respectful of the fragile alpine ecosystem by not introducing foreign seeds or garbage.
Stay safe, have fun and find some great spring conditions out there.
