CAC Avalanche Bulletin - Making it a Habit

Yesterday late afternoon we were on our way to join a large group of Fernie folk at the Griz Bar to enjoy a frosty beverage and Fernie's Shred Kelly. News of an avalanche at Fernie Alpine Resort had spread through town. Once knowing all involved were safe, we were anxious to get up there and show our support.

The crew at the local's table shared their stories of volunteering. A very thorough, organized and efficient plan was executed and all were impressed with the Ski Patrol's knowledge, professionalism, skill and heart. The Ski Patrol and FAR staff continued to work and brief into the evening and when they arrived they received a warm welcome at the Griz Bar.

Avalanches are an occurrence at the forefront of an experienced skiers mind when exploring the mountains, particularly with variable conditions like we have been experiencing over the last couple of weeks. Even so, there have been occasions over this time period where knowledgeable and experienced skiers have been overheard pressing Ski Patrol about opening closed areas. These areas are closed because the Ski Patrol, whom are experts in their field, deem them unsafe for our use. And even with their extreme caution and hard work to stabilize areas, the reality is avalanches happen. It's part of the risk we take when we slap on a pair of skis or a board and head out into the mountains. It's to our benefit to understand these occurrences, the environment, and current conditions and ski accordingly.

An amazing and free resource is the Canadian Avalanche Centre's website, which includes bulletins by area. Make perusing this site a habit during the winter months, you'll be surprised at how quickly it changes how you look at your environment when you're out in the mountains.

www.avalanche.ca/cac/bulletins/latest/south-rockies

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