WEMountain Golden Rules for Safer Mountain Adventures
Avoid common mistakes with our WEM Safety Tips, designed to keep you and your group safe in the mountains:
- Respect for Nature and Others
Every step you take and every turn you make must show respect for wildlife, vegetation, and fellow riders. Protect our ecosystem by acting with care and kindness.
- Thorough Project Planning
Every adventure requires careful planning. What, who, when, where, how? Learn to anticipate the unexpected. Adapting to the environment and being on the lookout for change is key to a safe backcountry experience.
- Mental Well-Being
Know-how and techniques are important, but so is your mental state. Your emotions, motivations, and perceptions influence the choices you make. Cultivate a mindset that encourages objective decisions and realistic risk assessment.
- Physical Well-Being
Physical fitness and mental clarity are essential. A balanced diet, proper hydration, and restful sleep are your best allies. Be aware that your body can be affected by pain, injuries, medication, or stress.
- Equipment Checks and Maintenance
Rescue equipment (transceiver, probe, shovel, airbag) does not prevent avalanches, but it can save lives. Practice using it regularly and check its condition before every outing. The same applies to your ski and snowboard gear.
- Understanding the Environment
Nature is both your ally and your greatest challenge. Weather and snow conditions play a crucial role. Observe weather indicators, assess slope steepness and wind-affected zones, and remember that most avalanches occur on slopes steeper than 30°.
- Knowledge of Specific Terrain Features
Stick to favorable terrain to reduce the risk of triggering an avalanche or worsening conditions. Recognizing safe vs. unsafe terrain can help you avoid dangerous traps.
- Additional Sources of Information
More information equals better decisions. Optimise your analysis by consulting local professionals, checking avalanche reports, and using technology.
- Traveling and Communication Rules of Thumb
Fatigue impairs judgment. Stay alert and communicate clearly with your group to ensure a safe, collective experience in the backcountry.
Why Is Training Essential?
Many backcountry skiers and snowboarders overestimate their knowledge or rely solely on their equipment. But the reality is:
- 90% of avalanches are triggered by the victim or their group.
- Rescue gear won’t prevent an accident—it only helps after one happens.
- Even experienced skiers make mistakes without proper training.
WEMountain is the first international mountain safety program, combining online learning and practical training. We offer risk prevention and avalanche safety courses with a unique, three-module approach:
- AVOID (80%) – Learn how to manage and prevent risks.
- REACT (10%) – Master how to respond effectively in case of an avalanche.
- RESCUE (10%) – Learn how to successfully conduct a rescue operation.
At WEMountain, our mission is to promote safe outdoor sports. Our innovative, accessible, and interactive method makes high-quality mountain training available remotely.
For all members, enjoy a 20% discount on all WEMountain’s mountain safety online courses.
Test Your Knowledge: Are You Ready for the Backcountry?
Think you already know everything about mountain safety? Let’s put that to the test!
Take our WEMountain Quiz in partnership with the Ski Club of Great Britain and see where you stand.
Are you up for the challenge?
Ride Smart, Stay Safe
The mountains are an incredible place for adventure, but safety starts with knowledge. With the right preparation, mindset, and training, you can experience the backcountry with confidence and responsibility.
Join WEMountain and thousands of other riders, brands, and instructors in making mountain sports safer for everyone.
