This is a small look at a really big pic. it has been ongoing for years and has accelerated over the last couple The media has made statements that the previous 3 times the ***professional ski guides*** were out on the same mountain with no signs of danger. Then on the 4th trip tradgedy strikes. Because of the numbers, things have been down played. But with the numbers involved with sleds it is cause for attack. There is a large number of sledders who have enough time experience and training to consider them professionals. You can be guaranteed that alot of them were sure a mountain was safe. You can't controll nature, you could ride the same area all year not have a problem until the next ride, just like the skiers. The avy warnings are out and they are still high. But when you ride or ski the steep and deep there will always be the potential for an avy. It's the risk you take it can't be controlled short of staying off the mountain. And really? who wants to do that. You can train people to be aware and know how to rescue until they can do it with their eyes closed. But at the end of the day the mountain will do what it wants. This isn't saying training is not a good thing it is and highly recommend it. But only those who want to participate will. How can you force someone to take a 2-3 day course. Or how can you cram 2-3 day course in to one day and have people get something out of it. The next issue to be looked at and has already been talked about, is with the rcmp looking to lay charges are clubs etc. really going to stick their necks out with this. Liability issues have become a big thing in Canada the last few years. Ultimatley people have to step up and be responsible for themselves. Dealers,clubs, etc. can post info to make people aware they should have training but from there it is up to the individual.. If comes to the goverment stepping in likley going to see licences required etc. which i guess ok so long as the money goes where it should. But what does that really do unless the only way you get a licence is with taking the course and then what happens when an avy strikes again..