After loss of friend, Ontario sporting goods store teaches avalanche safety
ONTARIO, Oregon (CBS 2) — One sporting goods store is going above and beyond Saturday to educate the community when it comes to avalanche safety.
And, this topic is one that is near and dear to their hearts.
"He was very into power sports,” said the owner of Edge Performance Sports, Ryan Gentry. “Loved to ride dirt bikes but hadn't spent much time on snowmobiles. So, he got his first snowmobile. And, the very first time he rode it, he was caught in an avalanche and it killed him."
Gentry said the death of his friend, Joel Barrie, eight years ago kept him out of the back country for a long time.
But, Gentry soon found himself back, now with a need to educate others in honor of his friend.
"I started educating myself and others on avalanche awareness so I could get back out in the back country, and enjoy that time and do it in a safe manner,” Gentry said.
And, that's why Edge Performance Sports will be hosting an avalanche training Saturday, from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM.
The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation will be sending representative Rich Gummersall to teach the class.
"They'll be learning about the conditions of the snow,” said general manager, Chuck Scott. “They'll be learning the importance of beacons, probes, avalanche bags. All the kinds of things you need to stay safe out there."
As suppliers of snowmobiles and other equipment, Gentry added that he felt an obligation to educate people.
"The equipment that is available today, the technologies are so advanced that you can really get yourself into trouble very quickly, even if you don't have a lot of experience,” Gentry said.
Pre-registration for the event is suggested. You can do this by calling Edge Performance Sports at 541-889-4099 or emailing kelli@edgeperformancesports.com.
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