This story first appeared in the winter 2011 edition of Mountain Outlaw magazine
By Taylor Anderson Mountain Outlaw Assistant Editor
In an effort to generate awareness for skiers and snowboarders heading into the backcountry in Southwest Montana, Big Sky Search and Rescue has announced a Think Risk, Then Reward campaign.
The action comes at the feet of a five-month search for the body of Brad Gardner, who died skiing out of bounds on Lone Mountain in March. The group received donations from Gardner’s family and friends to use in whatever way they needed.
BSSR has allotted some money to ad placements, radio public service announcements, posters and video, all to prevent similar events from happening.
They want skiers to know that they can leave in bounds areas if they wish, but that they must bring the necessary rescue equipment: A friend; an avalanche beacon; a shovel; a probe; and gear in case of emergency.
