BRIGHTON, Utah—The Utah Avalanche Center (UAC) is urgently appealing to two skiers who survived an avalanche incident last Saturday to come forward with their experiences. The avalanche, which occurred on the northwest slope of Hidden Canyon near Brighton Resort, was not reported by those involved, prompting the UAC to seek vital information for future avalanche safety and rescue operations. This incident underscores the importance of reporting avalanche encounters, as it can significantly aid in understanding and mitigating risks for others. On the day of the avalanche, UAC experts and a member of the Brighton Resort ski patrol discovered evidence of the slide while conducting routine observations. According to a detailed report from the UAC, the avalanche measured approximately 200 feet in width and three feet in depth, propelling the skiers approximately 600 feet down the slope. The aftermath revealed two burial holes, one of which contained markings suggesting that at least one person had been fully buried. This alarming finding, including evidence of blood, highlights the potential dangers of skiing in backcountry areas, especially when boundaries are crossed. The UAC has made it clear to the skiers that they are not in trouble and that their primary interest lies in gathering crucial information to enhance avalanche research and improve future rescue operations. In a statement, the UAC emphasized, "YOU ARE NOT IN TROUBLE," encouraging the skiers to reach out to Brighton Ski Patrol or contact the UAC directly. The organization aims to foster an open dialogue to learn from the incident, which can be instrumental in preventing similar occurrences in the future. In the aftermath of this avalanche event, the UAC took the opportunity to remind backcountry skiers of the inherent dangers associated with skiing beyond marked boundaries. They issued a cautionary note on their social media platforms, stating, "If you duck ropes or travel beyond ski area boundaries, you are entering the backcountry, where dangerous avalanche conditions may exist." The UAC also pointed out that Utah has one of the highest rates of avalanche fatalities in the nation, particularly involving individuals who exit ski areas and do not return home. The response from the UAC highlights the need for increased awareness and caution when engaging in backcountry skiing. Ski areas establish closures and boundaries not merely as guidelines but as essential safety measures. Skiers are reminded that these precautions are in place to protect them from the unpredictable nature of avalanches and other hazards found in unpatrolled areas. The UAC has been proactive in its approach to avalanche education and safety, often conducting workshops and providing resources for skiers and snowboarders who venture into backcountry terrain. They encourage skiers to equip themselves with the necessary knowledge and tools, including avalanche beacons, shovels, and probes, and to consider enrolling in avalanche safety courses. These steps can be crucial in ensuring not just individual safety but also the safety of fellow adventurers in the backcountry. As the winter season progresses, the UAC will continue to monitor avalanche conditions across Utah's mountain ranges and provide updates to the public. They also maintain a robust online presence, offering real-time data on avalanche risks and safety tips. The hope is that by encouraging open communication with individuals who have experienced avalanches, they can better understand the dynamics of such incidents and enhance safety protocols for the future. In conclusion, the UAC's outreach to the skiers involved in this recent avalanche serves as a critical reminder of the importance of vigilance and communication in the backcountry. The potential risks associated with skiing beyond established boundaries cannot be overstated, and it is incumbent upon ski enthusiasts to respect those boundaries for their safety and the safety of others. The UAC remains dedicated to improving avalanche awareness and promoting safe skiing practices to prevent further tragedies in Utah's beautiful but perilous backcountry skiing areas.