S1E6: 1.6 - Backcountry Winter Safety - Jan. 21, 2021

In this episode discusses how to get in front of backcountry danger in the winter. Outdoor agencies across Colorado have seen an increase in park visitation and off-grid winter recreation. Recreating in the backcountry requires certain precautions and equipment to ensure a safe outdoor experience.Podcast host Mark Johnson talks with two CPW experts on winter backcountry recreation. Ben Plankis is the trails coordinator for the northeast region of the agency and Michael Haskins is a park ranger at Chatfield State Park who assist backcountry search and rescue teams with rescue missions.For more information on backcountry winter safety courses, visit colorado.com/WinterBackcountrySafety and take the Colorado Backcountry Winter Safety Pledge. TOPIC LIST:2:40 - what do people need to consider when they head up into the high country3:56 - know before you go - Check Avalanche and Weather Forecast at colorado.gov/avalanche 4:37 - equipment to keep you safe should you be caught in an avalanche5:40 - avalanche awareness classes6:38 - what to know if new to Colorado7:28 - what should you look for when in potential avalanche terrain8:05 - advice for experienced backcountry visitors9:40 - snow conditions this year and more people venturing out in the backcountry10:10 - guidelines for heading up into the backcountry11:38 - easy access into the backcountry can lead people into a false sense of security12:30 - what to do/know/have if you need help15:20 - COTREX trails app and cell phone GPS capabilities