6 easy tips to help you stay safe on the hill.
Go with a buddy
Going with at least one other person increases your safety big time; they keep an eye on you and you keep an eye on them. For example, if you like hitting the powder between the trees, you’ll have someone who is expecting you at the bottom of that run and knows your approximate whereabouts in case you don’t make it to the bottom. 
If you go alone, take the time to shoot a quick text to someone letting them know where you’ll be for the day. Tell them you’ll text them at a designated time once you’re home; set an alarm to ensure you don’t forget to send them that text.
Have a designated meet spot
Whether you and your friend plan on staying together all day or not, it’s possible you lose track of each other unintentionally. To ensure you’ll find each other again, designate a meeting spot, near the lodge for example, where you’ll meet at a certain time in the day. I like sharing my location on my phone with several people as an added safety precaution.
Keep your phone warm
Keeping your phone warm prolongs its battery life. This is crucial to ensure your location is updated as much as possible. Your phone is also a portable clock which is especially needed if you’re meeting a friend at a designated time.
Know how to read the map
Every resort has maps of the runs and accommodations posted near the lodge, at the top of the chairlifts, and sometimes halfway down a run. However, these maps are only helpful if you know how to read them. The most important part is knowing the colour system.
Here’s a quick map legend:
Green dot = easiest way down that side of the mountain
Blue square = intermediate level, more difficult than green runs
Black diamond = advanced level, more difficult than blue runs
Double black diamond = High experience level is necessary as these are the most difficult runs on the mountain
Know your ability
I described above that there are different runs to match your level of ability. It is crucial to be aware of your ability levels so you can stick to the ideal runs for you. If you’re new on the hill, I recommend trying a variety of short green runs to gain confidence to then go on to try longer greens. Once you’re fairly confident and comfortable on the greens, I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and try some blue runs.
Bring an avalanche pack
An avalanche pack is a necessary investment if you ride backcountry or any unmaintained parts of the mountain.
Cheers,
Jo
