Know your ability. Choose outings that don’t push your comfort zone, especially if winter travel is new to you.

Tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back. 

If you’re hiking, plan for snow and ice. Bring snowshoes for deep snow, and microspikes for icy terrain.

Pack for safety. Pack the ten essentials, including extra non-cotton layers, water, an emergency shelter, and a light source. Always bring a transceiver, shovel, and probe when heading into the high country, and know how to use them.

Choose your partners wisely.  Travel with a partner in the winter, and make sure your partners have a transceiver, shovel and probe, and know how to use them. Remember that your partners are your primary rescuers if you are buried in an avalanche. 

Check the forecast. Know the weather and avalanche forecast for the area you intend to recreate in. Seek AIARE level instruction to better understand how to evaluate avalanche conditions in the field. Avoid traveling during or immediately before or after inclement weather.

Plan your route. Familiarize yourself with the area you’re planning to snowshoe, ski or ride, and identify possible avalanche hazards on the route you intend to travel. 

Do a transceiver check at the trailhead. Make sure that everyone traveling in your group has a transceiver with adequate battery life, and is able to both send and receive a signal. 

Continually evaluate conditions. Keep an eye on snow conditions as you travel, and look and feel for signs of unstable snow such as cracking or “whumphing.” Beware of weather conditions that are conducive to increased avalanche risk. 

All to go, one to say no. Discuss what you’re seeing and make decisions as a group. If anyone in the group is uncomfortable with proceeding, turn around. Pay attention to group dynamics when making decisions. 

Don’t be afraid to turn around. If you encounter terrain, weather, or other hazards that make you uncomfortable, don’t be afraid to turn around. 

Stay calm. Stop and take a few deep breaths. Think, evaluate your options, and make a plan.

Organize a partner rescue as soon as it is safe to do so. In the event of an avalanche burial, you are your partner’s best chance at survival. 

Call for help if it doesn’t delay partner rescue. Call 911 if you have cell service. Some counties, including Boulder County, have Text-to-911, which may be more effective if you have poor signal. Having a satellite communication device may be a good idea if you will be somewhere with limited/no cell phone service. RMRG and fellow volunteer professional mountain search and rescue groups do not charge for rescue in Colorado, and a rescue may be more effective if requested early.

If you’re lost or stranded, stay put. Stay in a safe place where you can hear rescuers calling and make yourself visible. 

Be patient. Be aware that it could take some time for rescuers to reach you.