Image: Screen Shot from Know Before You Go, Video and Article

With the tragic news out of Montana this week of the first avalanche fatality of the season, it is easy to feel helpless. We are beside ourselves with grief that such young, active, vibrant members of the action sports community could be taken so cruelly. While searching for answers we came to a conclusion. We can’t just sit back and feel helpless, we have the duty to inform and inspire.

Don’t feel helpless, get educated.

Get educated and encourage your friends and riding buddies to do so as well. Practice using your gear before and during the season and continue your education.

A lot of local ski shops also have social events around Avalanche Education. Look for these fun events in your area. Like this one from Tahoe Mountain Sports in Truckee, CA at Alibi Ale Works on October 25: Winter Predictions & Backcountry Decision Making.

Motivate. Get together with your friends and organize your own event. “Beacon search & BBQ” is a great excuse to bust out your gear and get on the same page as your favorite riding buddies.

Avalanche Workshops In Your Area:

California/ Nevada/ Tahoe

October 14: California Avalanche Workshop (CAW) in South Lake Tahoe at the Lake Tahoe Community College. Great article by the Tahoe Tribune about the event.

Buy tickets here.

Stay informed throughout the season at Sierra Avalanche Center.

Mammoth, CA

Stay informed throughout the season at Eastern Sierra Avalanche Center .

Seattle, WA

October 22: Northwest Snow and Avalanche Workshop, at The Mountaineers, Seattle, by the Northwest Avalanche Center

Stay informed throughout the season! NWAC

Colorado

October 18, 21, Nov 1 throughout the State. Public Campaign presentations “Know Before You Go” (KBYG).

Calendar Here!

Stay Informed throughout the season at Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC)

Utah

November 4: Snow and Avalanche Workshop at The Cliff Lodge at Snowbird, by Utah Avalanche Center

Buy tickets here!

Jackson Hole, WY

Stay informed throughout the season at Bridger Teton Avalanche Center and Like their Facebook page, Friends of Bridger Teton Avalanche Center

American Institute for Avalanche Research & Education (AIARE)

AIARE will offer public avalanche training courses all winter long in multiple states around the U.S. including California, Colorado, Alaska, Washington, Wyoming, Utah, New Hampshire and Vermont. Check in with AIARE to see where to start your education and how to continue your education.

Schedule of classes here!