Recent slide in the woods at Stowe with a 12" crown. Don't think that because you're on the east or in trees that you are automatically immune to slides. It is an incredibly rare occurrence in this area but definitely something to always be wary about whenever there is new snow. All it takes is some heavy snow on top of a crust and some hoar frost and you're fucked.
Images pulled off this thread (
http://www.tetongravity.com/forums/showthread.php?t=180643) read more for the full TR and more pics
Not saying you should ski inbounds on the east with a beacon, but be aware of your surroundings, ski with a buddy, and know how to interpret the signs. If you are in a more exposed area make sure you're totally aware of the conditions that day and the snowpack. Also consider what lines are more dangerous than others and find the balance between putting yourself in danger vs skiing a sick line
From what I've seen on my time on NS, i feel as though in general we are somewhat careless when out of bounds in more exposed areas. Thank god there aren't more avalanche encounters on NS, but being carefree and having a fuck it attitude is great for the park and in patrolled areas, but be safe when you go in the BC.
If going into the backcountry, imo it is imperative that you have a beacon, shovel, probe, and an Avy 1 course. Learn to dig a snow pit, and read up about avy reports in your area before heading out. They're small investments that could save your ass Also, the number 1 rule, always, always, always ski with a friend when you leave a ski area. You're rarely gonna dig yourself out of a slide, you need a friend there to do it
So, to reiterate, several precautions you can take when putting yourself out there:
-SKI WITH AT LEAST ONE OTHER PERSON
-Beacon (i recommend the Mammut Pulse or BCA Tracker 2) and make sure you put it as close to your body as possible
-Metal shovel
-Long probe
-Avalung or ABS packs are your decision
-Avy training course
-dig a snow pit
-consider not putting on pole straps and not doing up your backpack straps for the descent
I'm sure this has been discussed many times before, but just a reminder that avalanches are really fucking scary and intense, and I hope nobody on NS ever has to experience one
