Do Not Die On The Mountain

I just happen to be a regular reader of the CNN website. Today there has been an update to a previous article about climbers who have gone missing on Mount Rainier in Mount Rainier National Park.  Here is LINK to the article. Reading about this tragedy reminds me of how easy it is to underestimate the risk all outdoor enthusiast take when venturing out into the great outdoors. I am afraid we all take the risk way too lightly. Back in the 1970s I was stationed at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Anchorage, Alaska. Being an avid hiker of the Appalachian Mountains, my assignment to Alaska was a great opportunity to get out into the great mountains that were a short drive from my family quarters on base. Anchorage's Flat Top Mountain trail head was a short 20 minute drive from my driveway. Through one of my gym buddies I learned about the Alaska Rescue Group.  Today the AMRG is an all volunteer organization dedicated to rescuing people in the mountains of Alaska.  

It did not take me long to join up. We practiced mountain rescue techniques on the weekend on the mountain slopes around Anchorage.  

Don't die on the mountain cannot be understated. The photos below are from a real life rescue where a school teacher who recently moved to Anchorage went on an afternoon hike on a mountain south of Anchorage. His body was found at the deposition zone at the bottom of an avalanche. He was totally unprepared for his hike that turned out to be a disaster. He was under dressed. He did not carry any emergency equipment. Today with the globe covered by GPS satellites hikers and mountaineers should never be out of touch from where they are. Recreational Equipment (REI) carries personal GPS trackers.  Taking one of these on any back country adventure will greatly reduce the risk of dying on the mountain when you do not show up back at the trail head. I know cell phones are great but cell reception can be really limited off the beaten path. 

Before venturing out do your homework. There are many good books on mountain and avalanche safety. In addition to books, there are also websites dedicated to mountain safety. Mountain Safety Info is an international knowledge base with very good information about avalanches. The Mountain Rescue Association has an online course for those who are interested in their approach of mountain rescue. And Mountain Education might also interest you. Being safe in the great outdoors is so important to you and your family. Be sure to use a checklist. Here is a LINK to a very good check list from Backpacker Magazine. Magazines like Backpacker are a great resource because they cover seasonal topics all year long. 

No matter if you are a flat lander or a seasoned hiker or  mountaineer being prepared for your next trip into the mountains is so important.

So until next time, be safe in the sun and have a great day in the great outdoors.