[pct-l] Arrests on the Snow

[Montedodge@aol.com (Montedodge@aol.com)]

 It would be wise for someone thinking of doing the PCT to go out with some 
one who knows how to do a correct ice axe arrest and practice it from several 
ways of falling. This is not rocket science and if I can do it , anyone can! 
Ron is correct about just hooking up with someone who can teach you on the 
fly if you don't get a chance before your trip. And of course , practice 
makes perfect. Go for a longer model ( ice axe) that can be used as a walking 
stick, instead of just a pack ornament. Get a snow basket for it and bring 
some little instep crampons. ( Of course Jardinites go later and may need 
zippo!!) Don't forget some Neon  Colored sun screen so you can Doctor your 
face like Alice Cooper when hiking over snow. If you find a wooden ice axe at 
a yard sale, better grab it as they are going fast and are quickly becoming 
hard to find. Same goes for the old MRS ice axes!! ( Not wood, but very 
collectable)