Winter in the backcountry brings its own set of challenges. As temperatures drop and daylight fades, risks increase, and preparedness becomes paramount. Join us for an essential session on staying safe during winter adventures with King County Explorer Search and Rescue professional Wes Cooper.
Wes will share real-life stories from Search and Rescue missions, and valuable lessons learned from them. Discover the heroic efforts of KCESAR volunteers who brave the toughest terrain and harsh winter conditions to bring people home safely—and learn how you can avoid becoming their next mission!
What to Expect:
True Stories of Misadventures: Experience real-life winter rescue stories and learn how you can avoid becoming a cautionary tale.
Winter Safety Tips and Emergency Planning: Equip yourself with strategies to handle cold temperatures, avalanche risks, and snow-covered trails. Make sure you’re prepared to prevent and manage common winter hazards, from frostbite to snow blindness, and navigate safely in reduced daylight and whiteout conditions.
What to Do If Something Goes Wrong: Understand how to contact Search and Rescue (SAR) in an emergency and how to provide crucial information so that they can find you. Get tips on what to do in case of an avalanche, hypothermia, or other emergencies. And know what to have with you in case you need to spend unexpected night out in the cold.
Expert Advice and Essentials: Gain insights on what gear is critical for winter adventures, including avalanche safety equipment, emergency shelter, and cold-weather sleeping gear.
Inside Search and Rescue: Get an insider’s view of the complexities of winter rescue missions, including the challenges of navigating snowy terrain and managing severe weather conditions. See how SAR teams plan and execute their operations in harsh winter environments.
Interactive Q&A: Have your winter-specific questions answered by Wes Cooper and make sure your ready for all your winter adventures no matter the terrain or conditions.
About Your Instructor: Wes Cooper
Wes has been a dedicated volunteer with King County Explorer Search & Rescue and Seattle Mountain Rescue for nearly two decades. As a field leader and director of training courses, he brings a wealth of experience and a passion for outdoor safety. Wes’s mission is to use his skills to save lives—and now he’s sharing his knowledge with you.