Nice work Sarge, BCA, et al....

[Woodsy]

September 2, 2005

Boulder, Colo. (Ski Press)-Equipment manufacturer Backcountry Access (BCA) has teamed up with filmmaker Teton Gravity Research (TGR) to create a state-of-the-art avalanche beacon training video.

The new DVD, entitled “Tracker 101: Basic searching with digital avalanche beacons,” will be released this fall, available directly from BCA. It will also be included on all DVD copies of TGR’s 2006 feature film, “Tangerine Dream.” Hosted by TGR lead guide Jim Conway, the video was filmed on location in Haines, Alaska. It will be available from BCA for $10 including postage.

The 20-minute video opens with a rocking sequence of skiers, snowboarders and snowmobilers riding in avalanche terrain. After a concise summary of avalanche statistics, Conway provides an introduction to safe backcountry travel techniques, with an emphasis on avoiding avalanches in the first place. Conway then walks the viewer through the primary, secondary and pinpoint phases of the transceiver search, accompanied by line diagrams illustrating each phase. He concludes with pointers on efficient probing and shoveling techniques. While Conway uses the Tracker DTS transceiver throughout the video, the lessons provided are fully applicable to all digital transceivers.

At the end of the DVD, the viewer can choose from a menu of animated tutorials on more advanced search techniques. These include lessons on electromagnetic flux lines, basic multiple burial searching using the “three-circle method,” and advanced multiple burial searching using the Tracker’s Special mode.

The training DVD complements BCA’s existing training and education program. As part of this effort, the company has donated and installed 30 of its “Beacon Basin” training systems across North America and Europe, with 20 more planned for 2005-06. These training parks feature 10 permanently buried transmitters connected to a central power source and control panel. The objective is to provide a fun and efficient way for beacon owners to practice with their beacons.

For more information on BCA’s 2005-06 education program, see www.bcaccess.com/education. To order “Tracker 101,” contact BCA at (800)670-8735 or info@bcaccess.com.

[Trackhead]

Good find Woodsy.

And for 10 bucks, a reasonable price.

[Core Shot]

Good find Woodsy.

And for 10 bucks, a reasonable price.

Why not just buy a copy of Tangerine Dream??

It is so cool that TGR includes these avy training tools on their DVD's.
It will definitely save lives.

I watched the last one, and its good to see this years video will be longer with even more detail. I am particularly stoked about the advanced lessons and tips.

Well done gents!!

[Powder Seeker]

Glad I have already preordered my copy! By putting it on this DVD, I think they are alot more likely to be able to spread the word. Many people may not know about just the avalanche DVD, but TGR does lots of publicity for their films. This is a great way of getting education into winter enthusiast's homes. Way to go TGR!

[irul&ublo]

In this month's "Men's Journal", they have a list of the 50 best jobs. Nice piece on Jim Conaway there as head guide for TGR.

[Hacksaw]

In this month's "Men's Journal", they have a list of the 50 best jobs. Nice piece on Jim Conaway there as head guide for TGR.

I looked at that article at the Safeway newstand the other day. What a sad joke of an article.

In the "50 best jobs," (outdoors type jobs, etc...) they didn't even mention ski partrolling or working for an avalanche center. I get folks all the time wanting to break my legs, if they can have my job....

I'm really glad I flipped through the magazine, instead of buying it. At least I didn't waste my money....

Meanwhile, I look forward to getting a copy of the TGR/BCA beacon DVD.

Cheers,
Halsted