Off the Trail Safety Tips for Cross-Country Skiers

• Don't get lost.  Carry map and compass.  Always know where you are.  When visibility drops in storms, fog, or lowlight, landmarks disappear causing familiar settings to look unfamiliar.
• Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return
• Assess your ability and energy level and then select your route.   Poor planning can result in unplanned overnights and possible rescue. 
• If you are lost, you are lost!  Stay put, go into survival mode and await rescue.  If you keep traveling while lost you will travel out of the search area and eliminate the possibility of rescue.
• Protect yourself - purchase a Colorado Outdoor Search and Rescue Card which provides search and rescue insurance for $3 per year available from the Grand Mesa Nordic Council.  For info call Tom at 434-9753
• Ski under control. Perfect a good snowplow (wedge). Use boots with good ankle support for digging in ski edges during snowplow and turns.
• Dress in layers of synthetics.  Use a wicking layer against your skin, then fleece layers for insulation, then a weather breaking shell for storm conditions.  Avoid cotton, especially against the skin, e.g., cotton T-shirts. They get wet from sweat and stay wet.
• Carry energy foods and energy drinks.
• If you plan on traveling off the trail, be prepared for an unplanned overnight
• Learn how to avoid avalanches.
• The Ten essentials