#KBYG
Adding to an already grim year of statistics, last week was the deadliest week of avalanches in the U.S. in more than a century. At least 15 people were killed in avalanches in six states between Jan. 31 – Feb. 6, including three in the San Juans alone.
To help folks better contend with this season’s treacherous and unprecedented conditions, Friends of the San Juans wants to equip them the best tool possible: knowledge.
The local avalanche awareness nonprofit recently released three short Youtube videos covering avi basics including: “Know Before You Go” (KBYG) principles; avalanche awareness and warning signs; backcountry etiquette; gear and training; and the all-important “Five Red Flags” (recent avalanches, signs of instability like thumping and whumping, recent snow, wind loading and rapid warming.)
The short and informative videos include appearances by FOSJ volunteers as well as Jeremy Dakan, of Pine Needle Mountaineering; Josh Kling, of FLC Outdoor Pursuits; Michael Ackerman, of the Silverton Avalanche School; and CAIC South San Juan Forecaster Chris Bilbrey.
In addition to the videos, FOSJ has teamed up with the Silverton Avalanche School and the Telluride Mountain Club/Peter Inglis Fund on “No Blackout Days,” a website for all things backcountry awareness. From learning materials to case studies, and information on where to sign up for regional avalanche courses, No Blackout Days is meant to be a one-stop shop for virtual backcountry awareness education.
Check it out at www.noblackoutdays.com. To see the FOSJ vids, go to: tinyurl.com/177jxniq
-
- 05/28/2026
- Quick 'n' Dirty
- By Missy Votel
-
Help for the Demon Bridge, Highway 550 N closure, and fire mitigation falls off
- Read More
-
- 05/28/2026
- Getting crafty
- By Haylee May / Colorado Public Radio
-
Colorado brewers buck national trend by adapting to changing times
- Read More
-
- 05/21/2026
- Taming the ART
- By Missy Votel
-
City chooses education, striping over speed limit on River Trail
- Read More
-
- 05/21/2026
- Planned Parenthood reopens
-
PPRM president credits local community in getting clinic running again
- Read More
- Short legs, big party
- 05/28/2026
-
On most days, Tracy Harwood spends her time as a court clerk for the City of Durango. But next Thurs., June 4 – International Corgi Day – she hopes to bring something entirely different to town: short legs, wiggly butts and oversized personalities.
- River cowboy
- 05/21/2026
-
It’s a mash-up made in Westernwear heaven. Sort of. Seems Chaco, the purveyor of the iconic strappy dirtbag river rat footwear, has joined forces with Wrangler, as in tight jeans, big belt buckles, bull riding and snap shirt fame.
- Making plans
- 05/14/2026
-
Wondering what’s up with the old 9-R Admin building at the end of E. 2nd Avenue that was going to be a fire department, then wasn’t going to be a fire department and is now going to be City Hall and the Police Department?The City of Durango will demystify plans for the historic building during a public session Wed., May 20, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Durango Recreation Center.
- Going for the gold
- 04/30/2026
-
Turns out, blondes do have more fun, or at least they get more awards. Last week, Ska Brewing won the gold medal for its True Blonde Ale in the English-Style Pale Ale category at the 2026 World Beer Cup. This is the third win for the Blonde at the World Beer Cup, held in Philadelphia on April 22 and pegged as one of the world’s most prestigious beer competitions.