“Doing a simple avalanche beacon check could save your life. Please recreate responsibly in the backcountry, and remember to check yourself, check your friends, every single time.”
As winter gets underway and skiers and snowboarders once again start traveling into the backcountry in search of lines its important to reenforce the importance of always wearing a beacon and making sure that it functioning properly. Tip of the cap to Teton County Search and Rescue (TCSAR) for putting together this video and for all the incredible work they do keeping us safe (MORE INFO HERE).
“Check Yourself, Check Your Friends” is an explicit reminder to the importance of checking the daily avalanche forecast, and doing a beacon check before every backcountry adventure. But it also means checking in with your friends to make sure they have also considered the forecast, that they have the right gear, and know how to use it. It means being mindful of your terrain selection, and being open to what others have to say. It means being patient at busy trailheads, long lift lines and crowded skin tracks, and having respect for other people, wildlife and the environment.”
ABOUT TCSAR PROGRAM BACKCOUNTRY ZERO:
IS BACKCOUNTRY ZERO JUST A WINTER PROGRAM?
No. Backcountry Zero focuses on developing educational curriculum, best practices, and informational events for all backcountry recreational activities in every season. From activities like rafting and cycling, skiing and snowmobiling, climbing and mountaineering to hunting and fishing, the program will work with the community to establish the tools needed for safer backcountry travel throughout the year, while focusing on the program’s vision.
WHAT ARE THE MAIN OBJECTIVES OF BACKCOUNTRY ZERO?
The main objective of Backcountry Zero is to work with the Jackson Hole community to provide accessible educational materials and opportunities to users to help execute and enjoy safer backcountry adventures, while working to reduce injuries and fatalities in the Tetons. This includes starting, fostering, and supporting conversations, classes, teaching, learning, exploring and understanding of the backcountry as much as possible, and being: Prepared, Practiced and Present.
HOW & WHY WAS THE PROGRAM DEVELOPED?
The Backcountry Zero program spawned more than three years ago during a TCSARF strategic planning meeting where backcountry fatalities were a topic of great concern. As a community that is rooted in a love of the outdoors, TCSARF collaborated with members of the community to establish the guidelines and vision of Backcountry Zero. Backcountry Zero is the first cross-sport, community-based program of its kind in the country, and was also influenced by Sweden’s landmark Vision Zero program for reducing vehicular fatalities.
WHO MANAGES BACKCOUNTRY ZERO?
Backcountry Zero is operated and managed by TCSARF and depends heavily on the the program’s partners for collaboration. Backcountry Zero is also made possible by community input, partner and sponsor contributions, TCSAR volunteers, and support from local authorities.
HOW CAN I GET INVOLVED WITH BACKCOUNTRY ZERO?
There are many ways to get involved with Backcountry Zero. From numerous educational workshops held throughout the year, to speaker series, to roundtable sessions, to community fundraisers and offering your feedback, Backcountry Zero is focused on highly accessible education and community support to build a stronger program that stays true to the vision.
HOW IS THE PROGRAM FUNDED?
The TCSARF is committed to supporting Backcountry Zero by raising funds from partners, sponsors, and community and business supporters.
WHEN WAS THE TCSAR FOUNDATION ESTABLISHED & WHAT IS ITS PURPOSE & MISSION?
The TCSARF is a non-profit that directly supports TCSAR volunteers through equipment purchases, advanced training opportunities, personal support and community education. The foundation was created in 1993 and was transformed to its current state in 2010 to help support the creation of the TCSAR facility located off of Hwy 22 in Jackson. The foundation works with various community groups on education and outreach opportunities and works with local and state politicians on issues that affect SAR funding, opportunities, and advancement. The Foundation will fund Backcountry Zero through 2020 and is dedicated to supporting its vision.
