COLORADO SPRINGS — Colorado is the most dangerous state in the country for deadly avalanches, according to data from the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC).
Avalanches have killed a total of 287 people since the 1950's.
But to prevent folks from becoming a statistic, CAIC is partnering up with the outdoor store, Mountain Chalet, to offer free avalanche safety classes on Wednesday, January 15.
CAIC will be sharing updates on this avalanche season, and teaching the public how to identify hazards and react to them.
Store owner Elaine Smith says the information CAIC will be sharing can be incredibly valuable.
"They can tell you everything that you'll need to know, and learn and practice before you go out there so you can be as safe as you can be," she said.
Attendees will also practice using several safety tools.
Mountain Chalet store manager Shane Leva told News5 some essential tools to carry when traveling the back country include: a beacon, a shovel, an avalanche probe, and an avalanche airbag backpack.
This class start at 6:30 p.m. They are free, and everyone is welcome to join.
You can find out more information here.
