Innerspace Watersports hosted an AST1 course with Brad Atkin, a local avalanche safety instructor. Nine students participated in the two-day course and learned the basic skills and knowledge to stay safe while riding in the backcountry.

Students gained an understanding of different terrain types, avalanche safety gear and types of avalanches and snow pack on day one in the classroom. Day two took them out to the beautiful Monashee Mountain ranges to learn to read terrain first hand. Students practiced exercises in proper trip planning, group organization and using transceivers, shovels and probes to rescue riders in an emergency situation. Search and Rescue gave them a surprise visit and offered some great pointers.

This time of year it is so important to be prepared while heading out into the backcountry. Innerspace offers daily and weekly rentals, or can educate you on purchasing the right equipment for you. Call for more info. 250-549-2040.