The more I learn about snow, the less I know. After taking an Avy 1 class years ago it got me thinking about how to encourage backcountry travelers to practice their search and rescue skills. There are beacon training areas at many ski resorts, but what if you don't live near one? The other option is to borrow or purchase an extra beacon, grab a friend and go out and practice.

 

What if their was an alternative to having to purchase another $350 beacon in order to practice? My concept for the project was to create an affordable training beacon that would encourage people to improve their skills. The concept would pair the unit with a smartphone, that would rate your beacon searching and locating skills, then publish your performance to social media sites for all to see. The better rating you have, the more likely you might get asked to go out on a powder day.