Ski Patrol’s Guide to Springtime Slope Safety

Hi folks, Brian here from Ski Patrol with your springtime safety and snow update. I talk to a lot of people this time of year who seem to use the mild days and sunshine as an excuse to let up on safety, so it seems like a good time to share some thoughts and experiences on this.

With springtime usually comes periods of melt/freeze conditions as well as some periods of healthy snowfall, so it’s important to be ready for everything. First and foremost, resist the urge to leave the helmet at home. Just because the sun is out in the morning does not mean the snow is soft. Often the snow surface is quite firm first thing in the morning until the sun can work its magic, so don’t take any chances. That snow can feel pretty hard if you hit your head on it. I also like the fact that my helmet has a visor, and if you open the vents you will get plenty of airflow.

It is also important to check your equipment before you head out. If you are like us, by now you have over 100 days on your equipment; and it’s important to give it a once over now and then. Don’t just assume that your binding is still safely secured to your ski or snowboard or that your boots are not about to explode. Also, be sure to have your edges tuned for those early morning conditions, and use the appropriate color wax to ensure you won’t be sticking in the afternoon.

Speaking of the sun and visors, it is very important as we get in to late March to take sunscreen and hydration seriously. Not to preach at you, but take it from me if you don’t use a good sunscreen first thing in the morning you will get burned. And don’t forget to reapply in the afternoon. Also, studies have proven that skiers and riders who do not hit the slopes properly hydrated or fail to stay hydrated through the day will suffer the consequences. In fact if you look around on a typical day on the mountain most people are technically dehydrated. Dehydration leads to fatigue and fatigue leads to a higher chance for injury. One last note on the sun – do not forget to wear a good pair of sunglasses or goggles.

Finally, just because we are getting into late March does not mean it is done snowing. Some of the biggest storms I can recall have happened in early April, so don’t be fooled by our recent mild weather. I think we will be seeing a pattern change by the end of the month and possibly a decent snow event to start the month. With that means getting back into that winter mindset and playing it safe, especially when venturing into Mott or Killebrew Canyons. Check in with us to inquire about backcountry conditions, carry a beacon, shovel, and probe, and be ready to use them.

Have fun out there, and enjoy what is left of the season!

Editor’s Note: Brian Gannon is the Director of Ski Patrol at Heavenly Mountain Resort. Brian has been with the Heavenly Ski Patrol since the winter of 1990, and has been the Ski Patrol Director for the past 3 seasons. From 2001 through 2007 Brian was the Snow Safety Coordinator at Heavenly and oversaw the daily snowpack observations and avalanche control activities. As the Patrol Director he oversees all patrol duties and a staff of 70 patrollers, base area medics, patrol candidates, and snowmobile drivers.

Although not originally from Tahoe, Brian has been in the area for over 20 years. Brian currently lives in Gardnerville, NV with his wife and two beautiful twins. His dream is to get his kids on skis by the end of this season, and start their training as future ski patrollers.