Written by: Cassandra Whelihan
The clock strikes 5 a.m. and it’s been puking snow all night. The forecast predicts 20 degrees and free refills. Your girl squad is ready to dawn patrol, lunch is packed and the chick rock playlist is blaring; today is going to be fun, but are you prepared if something unexpected happens?
Teton County Search and Rescues Backcountry Zero campaign put on a community event to teach people the importance of being prepared as they venture off into the Tetons winter wonderland.
Here is a list of what they recommend carrying with you, even if you’re only planning on lapping Glory.
General:
-Two forms of fire starter -Leatherman -Headlamp -Navigation -Batteries -Cord -Emergency bivvy -Toilet paper -Tape: duck and athletic -Carabiners -Sunscreen
Food/Water:
-Metal water bottle -Water purification tablets -Protein -Electrolytes
Avalanche:
-Shovel -Beacon -Probe
First Aid:
-Gauze roll -Gauze pad -Ace wrap -SAM splint -Band aids -Blister care -Tape -Aspirin -Scissors -Latex Gloves -CPR mask -Hand warmers
Other:
-Webbing -Rope -Tarp -Bivy Sack -Ski straps -Ski scraper -Spare boot/binding parts
It’s important to carry these items because the unexpected could happen and a day trip could turn into an overnight or worse, a few days. I also recommend attending community outreach programs to get educated on your local terrain and resources. Taking classes is really beneficial and also a great way to meet like-minded individuals to potentially adventure into the backcountry with. Lastly, trust your group and feel confident in everyone’s physical abilities and decision making as well as their abilities to properly use their equipment.
It’s up to you to ensure you have the resources and people if something goes wrong.
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