Know Before You Go: Avalanche Safety for Beginners

Recorded on January 25, 2023 | On Demand Video Available | Free Webinar

Know Before You Go (KBYG) is a free avalanche awareness program presented by the Colorado Avalanche Information Center. Not much science, no warnings to stay out of the mountains, and no formulas to memorize. In about an hour, you see the destructive power of avalanches, understand when and why they happen, and learn how you can have fun in the mountains and avoid avalanches. 

This session was led by Ben Pritchett, an expert with the Colorado Avalanche Information Center, and ends with a Q&A session with even more information. 

Watch the on-demand recording👇🏼

Learn How to Stay Safe in the Mountains During Avalanche Season!

In this engaging 60-minute session, Ben Pritchett from the CO Avalanche Information Center teaches you the fundamental skills and knowledge you need to stay safe in avalanche terrain. From recognizing danger signs to using safety equipment and understanding rescue techniques, you’ll leave this webinar with the confidence and knowledge to make informed decisions in the mountains.

About the Presenter: Ben Pritchett

Ben joined the CAIC first as the education coordinator, and later as a forecaster. He spent 12 years as the program director at the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE), and served as forecaster and later director at the Crested Butte Avalanche Center. The American Mountain Guide Association recognizes him as a certified ski guide. One of his favorite jobs spanned 18 seasons, forecasting for the Elk Mountains Grand Traverse ski race. Ben lives in Crested Butte where he backcountry skis, snowmobiles, hikes, and mountain bikes with his wife and two children.

Learn More About the Colorado Avalanche Information Center

The mission of the CAIC is to provide avalanche information, education and promote research for the protection of life, property and the enhancement of the state’s economy. It is a partnership between the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Department of Transportation (CDOT), and the Friends of the CAIC nonprofit organization.

Here from a past webinar attendee...

Julie Daniels
Julie Daniels
Fourteener Hiker
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"I can wholeheartedly say that Alex gives fantastic advice and has evident expertise and wise knowledge. I really value all of his contributions to the 14ers, and I am always impressed with how he has interacted with those learning.

Alex cares about our mountains and our community. If you’re reading this and about to tackle your first 14er, it will behoove you to participate in Alex Derr’s webinar."

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Don't Miss My Next Free Webinar: How to Climb a Fourteener in the Autumn

September, October, and November are great months to hike and climb 14ers, with fewer people crowding the trails. However, the weather is more variable, and there’s a greater risk. In my next webinar, I’ll share everything you need to know to have a safe and successful ascent during the Fall. Save a seat today!

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