Avalanche awareness class offered

Justin Steck

The Western News

A free two-day avalanche awareness workshop is being offered to the public on Friday, Jan. 16 and Saturday, Jan. 17.

Terry Crooks, mountain unit leader at David Thompson Search and Rescue, and Forest Service Snow Ranger Jon Jeresek will lead the classes.

Crooks said Montana usually ranks in the top three in the nation for avalanche fatalities each year. The first avalanche death in Lincoln County’s history took the life of Libby resident Bryan Harlow in a snowmobiling accident last year.

Participants will meet from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Jan.16 at the David Thompson Search and Rescue building.

On Saturday, Jan.17, the group will meet at the Search and Rescue facility and depart to Turner Mountain Ski Area. The workshop will run from 7 a.m. until noon.

Those wishing to participate should dress appropriately for winter mountain conditions on Saturday.

Call 293-6629 for more information.