The easiest way to rescue yourself is to not get into trouble in the first place.

The best philosophy I can convey about how to avoid problems is the Principle of the Three Red Flags, which states that most accidents are not the result of an unavoidable "karmic-cannonball", but rather are the predictable outcome of a series of related events. The trick to the Principle of the Three Red Flags is to recognize when these events are beginning to stack up and work against you. To do this, you must simply learn to notice the insignificant little details that are the ingredients of significant problems.

1. Always carry rescue equipment and know how to use it--then pretend you don't have any. Don't get caught in the trap of letting the fact that you are carrying extra gear force you into more dangerous decisions. It's sort of like driving on the freeway: we'd all be a lot kinder and gentler if the driver's seat were lashed to the front bumper instead of encased in a padded steel cocoon. A transceiver is not a golden ticket to safety.

2. Use safe route-finding and travel techniques. And remember: if a member of your party is buried by an avalanche, their only real chance of survival is if you rescue them--don't go for help unless you're sure they're dead, because they will be by the time you get back with the cavalry.