Police are reminding snow enthusiasts to take extra care, after two skiers became lost and required police assistance in the Snowy Mountains back country at the weekend.
About 4.30pm on Saturday 4 July 2020, a skier contacted emergency services after becoming lost outside Thredbo resort boundaries.
Police have been told two men – both aged 32 – departed the Dead Horse Gap trailhead earlier that day, with the intention of back country skiing along South Rams Head.
As weather conditions deteriorated, the pair became disoriented and contacted emergency services.
Police coordinated a multi-agency search effort and obtained the pair’s coordinates. The two men were met by officers from NSW Police and Fire & Rescue NSW Thredbo. They were assessed at the scene but did not require medical treatment.
The two men were carrying adequate provisions, but did not lodge a trip intention form and did not have a personal locator beacon.
Monaro Police District Commander, Superintendent Paul Condon, said the incident is a timely reminder for snow-goers to remain vigilant and register their intentions.
“Even the most capable skiers and snowboarders can get caught out, so please be mindful of changing weather conditions,” Supt Condon said.
“Plan trips according to your capabilities, notify others where you are going, have a communication plan in place in case of emergency and make sure you have plenty of appropriate clothing and equipment.”
“A trip intention form and a personal locator beacon can both make a huge difference in these situations.”
