Over the years, IFMGA guide Joe Stock has written several books. We’ve reviewed The Avalanche Factor. His guide, The Alaska Factor: Backcountry Skiing in Southcentral Alaska, and the Recreational Avalanche Decision Making Field Book have been well received. So when I see an email newsletter from Stock come through, which happened recently, I take note.
Here’s what the newsletter stated:
“I’ve practiced and taught avalanche rescue hundreds of times. I’ve taken 15+ Wilderness First Responder courses. But I’m not a rescue professional. I’ve never done a real avalanche rescue. My experience doesn’t extend much beyond fixing bad blisters. If things go sour, I’ll need help. Checklists and flowcharts help when things get complicated, like in a rescue.





