Backcountry Adventures: Hope for the Best, Plan for the Worst
Exploring the backcountry—whether through skiing, snowboarding, hiking, or camping—offers incredible rewards, but it also comes with inherent risks. While adventure calls for optimism and confidence, preparation is key to ensuring your safety and that of your group. No matter your experience level, knowing when to call for help can mean the difference between survival and disaster.
SENDY highly recommends seeking emergency assistance in the following situations:
Medical Emergencies
Carrying a first aid kit and being trained in CPR can make a life-saving difference. Call for help immediately in cases of:
Severe injuries, such as broken bones, deep lacerations, or head trauma.
Hypothermia or frostbite (uncontrollable shivering, slurred speech, numb extremities).
Cardiac distress, including chest pain, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeat.
Loss of consciousness or severe disorientation.
Avalanche or Snow Safety Concerns
If you or someone in your group is caught in an avalanche, initiate rescue efforts using an avalanche transceiver, probe, and shovel while calling for professional help immediately.
Powder Magazine: Ortovox Diract Voice Avalanche Beacon
If you witness an avalanche or suspect others are trapped, alert authorities without delay.
Pro Tip: Always check avalanche forecasts, carry an avalanche beacon, and take an avalanche safety course before venturing into avalanche-prone terrain.
Lost or Disoriented
Call for help if:
You are unable to locate your intended route or shelter.
You've been wandering for hours without successfully reorienting yourself.
Nightfall, severe weather, or exhaustion sets in, making navigation more dangerous.
Survival Tip: If lost, stay put, conserve energy, and try to signal for help. If you must move... walk downhill—you’ll likely find a creek, road, or signs of civilization.
Depleted Supplies or Equipment Failure
Emergency situations arise when:
You run out of food, water, or weather-appropriate gear in harsh conditions.
Equipment failure (e.g., a broken ski binding, snowshoe, or backpack strap) makes continuing unsafe.
Preparation Tip: Always carry extra provisions, repair kits, and a multi-tool for unexpected setbacks.
Severe Weather & Exposure Risks
Seek emergency assistance if:
You’re caught in a sudden storm, blizzard, or whiteout with no safe shelter.
Extreme cold or wind chill increases the risk of hypothermia or frostbite.
Heavy snowfall, flooding, or rockslides block your exit route.
Survival Tip: Pack Mylar thermal blankets, extra layers, and emergency hand warmers to combat the cold.
Dangerous Wildlife Encounters
Call for help if:
You encounter aggressive wildlife (bears, mountain lions, wolves) and cannot retreat safely.
Someone in your group is attacked or injured by an animal.
Preparation Tip: Carry bear spray, store food properly, and make noise while hiking in bear country.
Communication Failures
If you're in an area with no cell reception, your best options for calling for help include:
Satellite phones (SAT phones) or emergency personal locator beacons (PLBs).
Radios if traveling with a group using two-way communication.
Emergency signals (rocket flares, mirror signals, bonfires with thick smoke).
Preparation Tip: Always carry a waterproof lighter, fire-starting kit, and signal mirror for emergency signaling.
Helping Others in Distress
If you encounter other backcountry travelers in need of help, assist if it's safe to do so and contact emergency services on their behalf.
When Calling for Help: What to Do
Ensure your own safety first. Get to a stable, protected location away from hazards.
Use a SAT phone or emergency beacon if cell service is unavailable.
If you have reception, call 911 (or the local emergency number).
Your GPS coordinates or landmarks.
Nature of the emergency (injuries, avalanche, lost, etc.).
Number of people in your group and any relevant medical conditions.
Follow responder instructions and be prepared to assist with rescue efforts if necessary.
Stay put unless movement is necessary for survival.
Be Smart, Be Prepared, Be Safe
The backcountry is unpredictable. The best way to stay safe is to respect the risks, be properly equipped, and know when to call for help.
Before heading out, always:
Check weather conditions and avalanche forecasts.
Pack emergency essentials, including extra food, water, and first aid supplies.
Tell someone your exact route and expected return time.
Travel with a buddy whenever possible.
"Hope for the best, but always plan for the worst." – Maya Angelou
