Make Your Own Decisions

Make your own decisions.
Just because a slope has been skied does not mean it is safe. Don't make assumptions; gather your own objective data and base your decisions on that data.

An avalanche can be triggered anywhere on a slope.
If you have been gathering good data and evaluating the snow in a variety of locations throughout your tour, you will have a better assessment of the overall snowpack stability.

Constantly discuss all observations and test results with your partners.

Don't be afraid to speak up. Your input is valuable.

Don't be so focused on your goal that you ignore obvious clues. Re-evaluate constantly. Adapt to changing conditions.

If you have any degree of uncertainty, be conservative.
You can still have an awesome winter backcountry experience choosing a lower angle slope or different route.

Next Section: Evaluation Checklist

When you get to this point, you will have gathered a great deal of data. However, you should continue your assessment and gather data on the actual slope you want to descend. This continued assessment should include visual observations and stability tests.