SAFETY

Your safety is our top priority.

Our goal at Big Red Cats is to give our guests as much knowledge as they need to have a safe time in the backcountry. Whether you are a seasoned skier or a first-timer, we want every guest to learn something about traveling in the backcountry safely. A well-informed group leads to a more fun day taking advantage of all the deep, light powder!

Safety & Risk Awareness

Helicopter and snowcat skiing, snowboarding, and other activities that take place in wilderness areas, involve the risk of injury. The information contained in the Safety & Risk Awareness section of this website is intended to inform you of the risks, dangers and hazards you may encounter while helicopter or snowcat skiing or snowboarding, and to help you stay safe while enjoying these activities.

Click here for the course.

The Gear

We provide each guest with a pack including a probe and a shovel, as well as a transceiver and a radio. There are also a limited number of avalanche bags available for rent should you want that extra piece of mind.

Our Guides

Each group has a professionally trained lead guide and tail guide, and more often than not, a third guide/photographer or practicum guide.

Watch Our Safety Video Series

Electronic Devices Policy

Have you let your guide know what electronic devices you have?
1. Cell Phone
2. Heated gloves
3. GoPro cameras
4. Heated socks or boots
5. Battery heated jacket/vest
6. Other electronics
Turn cell phones and other electronics completely off at the start of the run (if possible). It is not enough for your phone to be on "Airplane Mode" - your phone must be completely off.
Any electronics that you don’t want to turn off should be stowed in a pocket or backpack at least 20 cm away from your beacon.
Keep all sources of metal, from shovel blades to food wrappers, at least 20 cm away from your beacon.
If it’s time to search, turn your cell phone completely off, but keep your guest radios on. Check that all other electronics are turned off (heated gloves, GoPros, etc.) If you suspect unavoidable interference is negatively impacting your beacon readings when searching, alert your guide ASAP by radio or voice.
GoPro and other POV cameras are allowed during cat skiing operations, but only helmet mounted or on a pole. Chest mounts, or WiFi/phone pairing functions are prohibited, as we are requiring guests to wear their transceiver in the middle of their body. These all must be turned off in an emergency when the team is switching to search.
Bluetooth and Wifi options on DSLR Cameras must be turned off for a normal skiing day.