Snow safety critical this winter

With heavy snowfall finally blanketing the mountains, winter has fully arrived. Avalanche forecasters are warning of a potentially extended period of persistent weakness in the snowpack as old snow interfaces with the heavy load of recent storms. Given the slide danger and also the day-to-day difficulty of navigating winter, it’s imperative to use the robust resources that serve the region.

From WYDOT forecasters and plow drivers who mitigate daily risks on roads to the Parks and Recreation crews removing snow from sidewalks, public servants are busy keeping the public rights of way open. Good tires, giving space to cars ahead and slowing down are all key to arriving safely to destinations.

Backcountry snow enthusiasts rely on federal and private funding for avalanche forecasts. The Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center produces daily forecasts and compiles data from a growing list of nearby zones frequented by users of all types.

Public lands managers are adapting to a growing population of nonmotorized and motorized users. The addition of a forecast zone in the Big Holes on Teton Valley’s west side was long overdue, and it’s encouraging that there are now specific forecasts for the Snake River and Gros Ventre ranges, whose snowpacks differ from their previously connected, but often quite different, neighboring zones.

All backcountry users must take responsibility for their own avalanche education and daily decision-making. Recognizing and accepting appropriate risk is paramount to the safety of your immediate group and to anyone below a slope of 30 degrees or more. This includes roadways, especially on defined avalanche paths along Highway 22 on Teton Pass and many steep road cuts.

All users should download the recently released Avy app for mobile devices, which provides specific guidance for each of seven public lands areas around Jackson Hole. Submitting observations via this app (or on JHAvalanche.org) by amateurs and professionals alike provides forecasters with a wealth of vital information that guides each day’s forecast.

Avalanche awareness events in recent weeks drew hundreds. This is just one component of building education and executing best practices in using the latest available equipment in case of an emergency. Taking a class is the next step. Dozens of avalanche educators are prepared to share the latest practices and techniques in safe backcountry travel, companion rescue and incident management.

We’re fortunate to have robust and well-trained Search and Rescue teams, and it’s important to remember that these selfless volunteers are ready to assist residents and visitors during emergencies. If you find yourself in distress in the backcountry, it’s important to communicate early and often by first calling 911 (if you have cell service) or using the free BackcountrySOS app (works with even one bar of cell service) or a satellite communication device. Whether on foot or with the new helicopter underwritten by private donors, our SAR teams are ready to help.

So let’s all do our part to spread the message of education, communication and prevention this winter. Avoiding tragedy in the backcountry takes community vigilance.