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HomeWinter Safety Tips

Safety Video


The following video reviews the key steps of preparing for a winter hike or backcountry ski.  Additional information can be found further down this page.  As each trip is unique, this is not intended to cover every precaution, thus other sources should be reviewed as needed.


 




Suggestions for Safe Trail Use in Winter


  • Let someone know where and when to come to look for you.  Tell them where you are going and stick to your planned route.

  • Groups of 4 to 8 are safest. Stick together.

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  • Take snow and weather conditions into account when estimating time.  Review the weather forecasts and radar linked on the home page of this website.

  • Never ski faster than a speed at which you would want to hit a tree.

  • Be able to stop within 3 ski lengths.

  • Stay dry.

  • Drink and eat.

  • Turn around when things do not go as anticipated or you do not see a trail blaze.

  • Plan your trip such that you should be returning with a safe margin before sunset.


    What to Pack

     

    What should you be prepared for?

 

  • Finding your way
  • Staying warm and dry
  • Staying fueled and hydrated
  • Visibility after dark
  • Fixing critical items
  • Injury

   So what you should have is:
 
  • Finding your way - Map and compass

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  • Staying warm and dry - Waterproof matches, lighter and/or fire starter.  More than one layer of clothing including warm jacket and hat.  Space blanket and handwarmers.

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  • Staying fueled and hydrated - High protein foods, including nuts, cheese, energy bars, etc...  Plenty of water (2 quarts)

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  • Visibility after dark - Headlamp (LED is best), extra batteries and bulb if not LED.  Cell phone flashlight is no substitute.Always have with you, even on a trip planned for daylight hours!

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  • Fixing critical items - Duct tape, parachute cord, pocket tools (Swiss Army knife).

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  • Injury - Basic first aid kit with bandages, personal medication, Ibuprofen and uncoated aspirin. Including the warmth, fueled, hydrated and visibility items listed above.

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Additional items to consider:

 

    • Tools, such as vise grips, saw, screwdriver for your bindings, super glue
    • Spare binding
    • Fully charged cell phone, but don't count on cell coverage
    • Take or renew a locally-offered Basic First Aid course


*** Click HERE for additional safety information from Greg Eckhardt, former Vermont State Game Warden ***