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Backcountry Safety

Altough snowkiting allows us to enjoy the backcountry powder while floating over it instead of trudging through it we are still susceptable to its dangers. Always exercise extreme caution when enjoying backcountry snowkiting and take a recognised backcountry safety course.

Rule 1

is always snowkite with friends. As well as being more enjoyable with your friends they are the ones who will help you if you get in trouble. Nominate a leader in your group so that decisions can be made quickly in the event of an emergency.

Rule 2

is always check the weather forecast. Check the wind forecast, as you would for any kite sport, as well as any avalanche warnings. Never kite in avalanche prone areas, especially at times of high risk.

You can always make your own checks with tests such as the Rutscblock test, the compression test and the shovel shear test http://avalanche.org/-nac/slideguide/new_slides/compression.html

Rule 3

is always carry appropriate gear. As well as your normal snowkiting gear each member of your party should have an avalanche transceiver, a snow shovel and a probe. Take an avalanche safety course to be sure how to use them and practise regularly.

If you are kiting deep into the backcountry make sure you have a means of getting back to base should the wind die or a problem with your equipment develop.

Snowkiting turns even the most basic rolling terrain into a playpark so most snowkiters avoid avalanche areas as there is so much potential elsewhere.

Rule 4

always check out our video gallery. You will learn a lot by watching