A skier in Colorado’s San Juan County took a wire to the neck while riding in the backcountry.
Silverton Medical Rescue shared this story as a PSA, clarifying that in a normal winter such debris would be covered with snow. They encourage recreators to be aware of debris, posts, wires, and other trash that’s far more exposed this year than others.
“Be safe and keep a keen eye out for things other than rocks and trunks. Danger looks different every year, and low avalanche risk does not equal low risk overall.“
Note this wasn’t a purposefully placed wire or trap, rather it was likely a piece of debris or garbage left behind without intention. If you’re headed into the backcountry, make sure you do so while staying alert. The condition of the skier isn’t clear, though it’s apparent that they did head to a hospital.
