SLIP ON SNOW

Washington, Snoqualine Pass

On June 4, Elizabeth Howard (64) was plunge stepping down the east side of Red Mountain when she lost her balance and fell head first down 200 feet of snow into a rock field where she slid another 75 feet. She was with a group from the Seattle Mountaineers, and was given immediate aid. It took eight hours for rescuers to reach her and prepare for a helicopter evacuation. (Source: The Mountaineers Accident Report Form and King County Department of Public Safety)

Analysis

No mention is made of ice axe usage or other safety precautions. (Source: J. Williamson)