Tragic news out of Idaho where a 72-year-old snowboarder from California died on Monday after falling into a tree well at Schweitzer Ski Resort.
The Bonner County Coroner determined Charles G. Fletcher Jr., 72, of Laguna Beach, California, died from accidental asphyxia due to snow immersion in a tree well. He went missing midday near the back side of mountain and was found by ski patrol with the help of a person skiing in the area.
The Instagram account DoingBadThingsWell honored Fletcher who lived a life dedicated to his two boys and his wife and saving energy and fixing crumbling America. The comment section is filled with heartfelt sentiments for a man who was clearly well loved by the community. Our thoughts are with Charlie’s family and friends.
Tree Well & Deep Snow Safety:
Snow Immersion Suffocation (SIS hazards)
Skiing and snowboarding off the groomed runs and in deep powder is one of the most exciting and appealing parts of our sport. However, if you decide to leave the groomed trails, you are voluntarily accepting the risk of a deep snow immersion accident. A deep snow or tree well immersion accident occurs when a skier or rider falls into an area of deep unconsolidated snow and becomes immobilized and suffocates. Deaths resulting from these kinds of accidents are referred to as an SIS hazard or Snow Immersion Suffocation.
Skier and Rider Education
Become educated on how to reduce the risk of SIS hazards through your own action and awareness. ALWAYS ski or ride with a partner within viewing distance. The website www.deepsnowsafety.org is an excellent resource designed to assist all skiers and riders in educating themselves about the risks and prevention of deep snow and tree well immersion accidents.