Seven Priorities for Survival in the Backcountry

Venturing into the backcountry is an undertaking only to be attempted by seasoned skiers. Proficiency and knowledge of route finding, slope stability and emergency protocols are important to maintain your safety. Should you find yourself in an emergency situation that requires an overnight stay in the backcountry, being competent and establishing your priorities can be the key to survival.

  1. Rescue

    • Your No. 1 priority when stranded in the backcountry is rescue. First, determine if you can rescue yourself. This may require assessing the scope of any injuries incurred and also the possibility of navigating the given terrain. If you must stay put, lighting a fire on a camp stove is the best way to get noticed by overhead rescuers using infrared devices.

    Avalanches

    • Avalanches are a top priority of backcountry skiers. Knowledge of the terrain, the snowpack and the weather help to determine the safest travel route. Do not venture out without ample experience in using avalanche transceivers and rescue gear. If circumstances warrant staying put, make sure you do so away from possible avalanche paths. Gullies, at the bottom of steep slopes, are not ideal for hunkering down. If possible, choose ridges or gentle slopes with trees to set up camp.

    Weather

    • Know the weather before you set out on your skis. The weather can be the key reason for becoming stranded. For winter travel, it is important to know what systems have passed and what is headed you way. Know the specifics, such as wind direction, snowfall amounts and duration. This could all prove helpful in an overnight stay.

    Warmth

    • If spending the night in the winter wilderness is inevitable, a snow shelter will provide warmth and protection from the elements. Igloos, mound shelters and snow caves are appropriate housing for survival. All can be built with the use of your avalanche shovel and hands. This could prove difficult with an injury. In this extreme situation, a tarp, para cord and trees can provide a makeshift shield.

    Food

    • Pack accordingly. Many foods that will keep you alive can be toted in a backpack. Dehydrated foods, nuts, fruit, energy bars and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are good choices. Avoid foods that could freeze and become difficult to eat. Unfortunately winter terrain does not warrant the availability of backcountry food sources.

    Water

    • One sure thing with winter travel is the accessibility of water. Snow can be melted using a camp stove to provide relief from dehydration. Boiling snow for five minutes will rid the water of any undesirable contaminants. However, in the worst-case scenario, simply eating snow can be used for mere survival.

    Attitude

    • Having a calm and positive attitude can save your life. When stripped down to the basics, your will is much stronger than you may think. Knowledge, mental clarity and a calm demeanor help you to think straight and make the best decisions for your given situation. Plus, the power of the positive can keep you alive. Believing you can persevere until rescue arrives is key.