Knowledge is Power
Our Vision at Beacon Bash is to Help educate people on using their beacons, and keeping them brushed up on their beacon skills. Whether you’re new to the backcountry or you just want to stay on point with your beacon skills Beacon Bash is a great place to practice with like minded people while being able to demo, and use the latest and greatest backcountry gear. Creating a great all inclusive atmosphere for learning and education while making amazing friends at the same time. Makes Beacon Bash one heck of an event! Our goal is to spread as much knowledge about the backcountry as possible so everyone can enjoy a safe and wonderful experience when recreating in avalanche terrain.
We work hard to make sure we bring out as many backcountry sponsors and vendors as we can so you have an opportunity to test the latest and greatest gear, and the ability to gather as much knowledge as possible from the top professionals in the industry.
It's essential to continue prioritizing safety when participating in backcountry skiing and split-boarding. Using essential avalanche safety equipment like beacons, shovels, and probes can be life-saving in case of an avalanche. Here's a brief overview of how to use each of these tools:
Avalanche Beacon (Transceiver):
Always wear your beacon turned on and set to transmit mode while skiing or snowboarding in the backcountry.
Make sure all members of your group have beacons and are familiar with their operation.
In the event of an avalanche:
Switch your beacon to receive mode as soon as you realize an avalanche has occurred.
Hold it close to your body and away from metal objects or electronics to reduce interference.
Slowly move in the direction of the strongest signal while watching the distance and direction indicators.
Use a grid or zigzag pattern to narrow down the victim's location as you get closer.
When within a few meters, switch to the fine search mode and follow the visual and audio cues to pinpoint the victim's location.
Avalanche Shovel:
Always carry a sturdy and compact collapsible shovel in your backpack.
In an avalanche rescue scenario:
Once a buried victim is located using the beacon, start digging immediately.
Begin by shoveling downhill and forming a probe line to locate the victim more precisely.
Keep digging until you've reached the victim. Time is of the essence in an avalanche rescue.
Avalanche Probe:
Carry an avalanche probe in your backpack. It should be long enough to penetrate deeply into the snowpack.
In the event of an avalanche:
Once you've narrowed down the victim's location with your beacon and started digging with the shovel, use the probe to confirm the victim's exact depth and position.
Insert the probe vertically into the snowpack in a systematic grid pattern.
When you encounter resistance, you've likely hit the victim or a hard layer in the snow.
Leave the probe in place to mark the spot and continue digging with the shovel.
In addition to using these essential tools, it's crucial to undergo avalanche safety training, regularly practice rescue scenarios with your group, and stay informed about current avalanche conditions in your area. Always check avalanche forecasts and carry the necessary safety gear when heading into the backcountry. Remember that avoiding avalanches through proper route planning and decision-making is the best way to stay safe.
"Will, Sean, and Wade came together in the Fall of 2018 to create an event focused on getting together with their backcountry brothers and sisters to dust the summer rust off of their backcountry rescue skills and get ready for the upcoming winter season. What started in a parking lot with 100 of our closests friends, a bbq grill, and a few dedicated vendors who are still with us today has now become an event we are proud to share with our entire community and get everyone ready for a safe, fun, powder filled season. Beacon Bash is to promote and prioritize safety within the backcountry skiing and split-boarding community. We are dedicated to educating and empowering outdoor enthusiasts with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to make informed decisions and mitigate risks while exploring the pristine wilderness. Through interactive workshops, hands-on training, and expert guidance, we aim to foster a culture of responsibility, preparedness, and camaraderie among backcountry adventurers. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that every participant returns home safely, while preserving the pristine beauty of our backcountry playgrounds for generations to come."