Successful self extractions from treewells

though it made for a less "flowing" ski down to frequently check on each other, it certainly gave a bit more security. Though it still could take 5 minutes to decide it's time to head back uphill,.........

<br>When skiing the trees with a partner, what is the best line of defense? <br> <br>1. Skiing down a ways and waiting<br><br>2. Skiing side by side (of course a ways apart)<br><br>Skiing the trees can and does offer some of the best snow around. This year with the attention of their hazard and especially with the huge tree wells we've seen, it sure has given a different perspective on safety. Having compatable radios has been a real help with Ron and myself. Although falling into a tree well, I'm not sure how much help a radio would be other than not getting an answer from your partner at least you would be able to head back up the hill quicker.<br>

Side by side works unless you're in moderatly tight trees where getting a clean line trumps keeping peripheral vision contact, which potentially leads to the minutes of wondering....<br><br>The radio idea seems good for that scenario Mad_Dog, where as you note not hearing a reply would lead to hastily getting skins on to head back uphill (hopefully just a short ways, since you're stopping frequently to check on each other, of course!).

Well, I was unforunately in a scary situation on Friday that was somewhat similar to a treewell. I just made a post about it. I certainly think radios are a good idea. I may start wearing an avalung even when doing frontcounty skiing like in the Alp BC. In the situation I was in my partner came to my aid quite quickly. Being above me, he was in good position to respond quckly. If he were below me it may have taken him much longer to reach me. Having some extra time in any situation like that could never be bad.

a cheap life insurance policy when skiing trees is to each carry a straight whistle. when you are out of site of your partner, signal 2 blasts (o kay?). Reply of 3 blasts means "I'm o kay". A long blast or no reply means I need help.<br><br>Straight whistles are available at West Marine for about a buck. The sound carries well & there are no moving parts.<br><br>It's not a substitute for beacons in the back country, but might be helpful when voice and sight don't cut it.