How Not to Die: Winter Edition - Backcountry Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

How Not to Die!

Common Backcountry Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

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 Tony Banic.

Tony will share four real-life rescue missions — and invite YOU to guess: Did this one have a happy ending... or not? These are true stories from the SAR front lines, and each one reveals common mistakes that winter adventurers make.

Discover the heroic efforts of KCESAR volunteers who brave the toughest terrain and harshest winter conditions to bring people home safely. Whether you’re planning a backcountry ski trip, a snowshoe adventure or trying snow camping for the first time, this class will give you the tools to avoid becoming Tony’s next mission.

What to Expect:

• Four True Stories of Misadventures: Hear real life winter stories and learn how you can avoid similar fates.
• 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.
• 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 Tony Banic and make sure your ready for all your winter adventures no matter the terrain or conditions.
• 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.

This class is perfect for all experience levels. If you go outside, this is for you.

Check out ESAR's IG for more photos rescue mission content

About Your Instructor: Tony Banic

Growing up in Alaska instilled in Tony a deep appreciation for both the breathtaking beauty and inherent dangers of wilderness environments. This early exposure to the outdoors sparked a lifelong fascination with backcountry exploration and a profound respect for nature's power.

As a recently retired chiropractor, Tony's passion for helping others continues through his volunteer service with search and rescue, allowing him to spend countless hours outdoors while making a meaningful difference in emergency situations.

Tony currently serves as a team leader with the King County Explorer Search and Rescue unit, bringing critical assistance to those in distress in our region's challenging terrain. Ranging from wilderness rescues to urban searches, Tony has participated in nearly 80 missions.