Canadian Ski Resort Issues Tree Well, Deep Snow Warning
White Water Ski Resort in BC, Canada, recently filmed a video with the White Water Ski Patrol to issue a warning for skiers planning to enjoy the fruits of the latest storm.
The resort is reporting 130cm (51.18 in.) of snow in the last seven days.
Ski Patrol noted that tree well dangers are not evenly spread between every type of tree.
"Evergreen trees in particular (fir, hemlock, etc.) can have large, deep tree wells that form when snow doesn’t get packed down around the base of the tree. These wells can contain a mix of low-hanging branches, loose snow, and air, so it’s easy for these voids to be hidden from view, and getting stuck in them can have dangerous consequences."
Besides never entering glades alone, there are a few other tips that may come in handy if the people you are skiing with do end up getting stuck.
White Water Ski Patrol advises not leaving to get help, instead sticking with your partner until help arrives.
They also advise keeping your skis or board attached until they are secured by the rope; this will stop them from going in deeper.
POWDER's Ian Greenwood also recently reported on tree well safety, noting that self-extraction from a tree well is virtually impossible.
Related: Brush Up On Your Tree Well And Snow Immersion Safety Ahead Of The Storm
Ski Patrol also advises calling for additional resources. This can be done by using a whistle or simply yelling for assistance and asking someone to call for Ski Patrol.
Whistles are inexpensive and small pieces of equipment (compared to deployable airbags, shovels, or even relatively compact probes) so it's a no-brainer to keep one in your day bag. Plus, whistles are useful in a variety of emergency situations.
Whistles, like every piece of equipment in your outdoor survival kit, are only as useful as your knowledge of how to best utilize them.
Learn more about how to use emergency whistles, whistle blasts, and how whistles fit into emergency procedures below.
The last few tips from Ski Patrol include evaluating scene safety for yourself and not simply relying on daily snow reports (although you should absolutely check avalanche reports, snow forecasts, and your mountain's daily conditions report, as well).
If someone in your ski group does become submerged, Ski Patrol advises beginning snow immersion rescue efforts as soon as possible, making sure to keep your partner’s airway clear.
It is also important not to knock more snow into the tree well.
During rescue efforts, determine where the submerged skier's head is and tunnel in from the side or below.
Do not try to pull your partner out the way they fell in. Continue expanding the tunnel to the airway until you can safely extricate your partner.
Related: Lake Tahoe Ski Resorts Remain Closed As Storm Rages On
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