Snowy situations

By: Brad Tripp

 

Every winter, someplace in the world is hit with some sort of serious precipitation. This precipitation freezes, either before it hits the ground or after it lands, which makes ice or snow. This ice and snow incapacitates us from doing normal things, such as running or driving, and in some instances, even walking. The ice and snow, while beautiful, can be very deadly in the wrong situation. Every year there are instances where someone wrecks, gets stuck or is trapped due to snow and ice.

In recent news, a landslide closed many roads in Valemount, British Columbia with no detours available. In other news, four men were caught in an avalanche in Colorado. Out of the four caught in the avalanche, the grandson of the Vail Ski Mecca’s (a rather large ski resort in Colorado) cofounder died in the avalanche while skiing that day. This (along with getting trapped in your car) may not seem possible, but it is very possible, especially during the winter season.

Every year many get trapped or find themselves in a dangerous situation around their car, due to snow pile up or the fact that there is nowhere close to go and they are stuck with no help nearby. The American Automobile Association (AAA) recommends clearing snow and debris from not only your car’s windshield, but behind and near the tailpipe. If snow builds up near the tailpipe it can trap carbon monoxide that can make its way inside the car and has the potential to do harmful things. 

Getting stuck in the snow can be a catastrophic, even life threating, situation. There are some tips to help if ever you get stuck in snow with nowhere to turn. According to booneyliving.com, you should always carry a shovel and a keep a bag of sand (or cat litter) in the trunk during winter months. A shovel will help to clear away snow and the sand is to gain traction (once sprinkled under a tire). If you do end up stuck, another tip they include is to try and rock the car, which can help gain traction, but should never be done too much, because it can make a bigger problem than you’re already in. Above all, they recommend that you stay calm.

So, what if you get yourself unstuck and make it to the ski resort only to be trapped by an avalanche? What are some things you can do escape if caught in a giant pile of snow? According to the Canadian Avalanche Centre, if you are caught in an avalanche try calling out for help, or try a quick escape to the side. Another thing is to remove any ski equipment; it can keep you from escaping if you become trapped. If you are caught in or buried by the snow, try kicking or digging your way to the top. The longer you are encased in snow, the more chance hypothermia has to set in. All in all, don’t give up if you’re caught by the snow; just try to be prepared for a variety of situations.