Tree Well & Deep Snow Safety
Skiing and snowboarding off the groomed runs and in deep powder snow is one of the most exciting and appealing parts of our sport. If you decide to leave the groomed trails, you are voluntarily accepting the risk of falling into tree wells or deep snow and suffocating.
A deep snow or tree well accident occurs when a rider or skier falls into an area of deep unconsolidated snow and becomes immobilized. The more the person struggles, the more entrapped in the snow they become. Deaths resulting from these kinds of accidents are referred to as a NARSID or Non-Avalanche Related Snow Immersion Death. Fortunately, these types of accidents are preventable.
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO PREVENT TREE WELL & DEEP SNOW ACCIDENTS:
Avoid Deep Snow & Tree Areas
Always Ski with a Partner and Keep Your Partner in Sight
Ski & Ride in Control and Defensively
Have a Plan to Survive
Attention Parents: Show Your Children This Educational Video
Learn about tree well safety from our very own ski patrollers. In this short and informative video, you’ll learn what a tree well is, why they are dangerous, and how to prevent an accident and have a fun day on the slopes.
