Avalanche safety course open to public

David Thompson Search and Rescue, in conjunction with local snowmobile groups, is hosting a public avalanche workshop Jan. 21-22.

The two-day course, which is open to the public, covers snow science, weather patterns, route selection, group dynamics and rescue strategies, organizers said in a press release. The Jan. 21 session, held at the rescue organization’s building adjacent to Riverfront Park, will run from 7 to 8 p.m. The Jan. 22 session will take place at a snowmobile hut on Keeler Creek.

“Back country avalanche safety is a community responsibility and the training will interface with local and regional search and rescue units to provide opportunity for training and safety,” said Terry Crooks of David Thompson Search and Rescue in a statement.

Residents can attend one or both of the sessions. Those interested in going out into the field on the second day are asked to meet at the search and rescue building at 7 a.m. Alternatively, they can join up with the group in the Keeler parking area, ready to head up the mountain, at 8 a.m.

For the Jan. 22 session, attendees must bring snowmobile transportation and are encouraged to pack snacks and dress for winter wilderness conditions. There will be opportunities for outdoor recreation at the session out in the field.

The Libby Snowmobile Club and Troy Snowmobile Club are participating in the two-day workshop. For more information, contact Dave Nitschke at (406) 291-8834 or Terry Crooks at (406) 293-6629.