Essential Backcountry Gear -- Satellite Messengers
As Furano becomes more popular with the backcountry powder folks, I notice that the vast majority of these visitors lack an essential backcountry item: the Satellite Messenger.
They have their avalanche beacon, they have their shovel and probe, all packaged in a nifty, cool-looking backpack, and they think they are ready for the backcountry. They are not. Amazingly, many don't even have the 10 Essential Items for backcountry travel. If things go wrong, they are setting the stage for an avoidable tragedy.
The 10 Essentials are map, compass, headlamp or flashlight, sun protection, first-aid kit, multi-tool, fire starter, emergency shelter, extra food, extra water, and additional warm clothing.
On top of those is the satellite messenger. Released in 2007, it allows users to send an SOS message via satellite (crucial in areas without cell service) that contains their exact GPS location. Now, instead of Search & Rescue, you have only Rescue. Much faster. Without this, how on earth are you going to summon help to your location? Even assuming your phone is working, how can you explain your location? If you don't have a compass, you can't even give approximate direction as to where you are. The Garmin InReach and the SPOT Tracker are the two main satellite messengers available today. Buy one. Carry it with you.
Mother Nature doesn't care two cents about us humans. We love nature, we seek it out, we revel in it, but we also need to deeply respect her strength, and prepare accordingly. Be safe, everyone.
See you in Furano.