I guess it's human nature to worry about the weather, or at least talk about it. Even so, I can't help but wonder why people don't think, talk and worry about things that would save them time, money or even lives.

A week or so ago, the North Valley Rescue Association conducted snowmobile training in the Canyon Creek area. This is a popular snowmobiling area, with miles and miles of groomed trails and an area where snowmobilers of all abilities can really enjoy themselves out of doors.

It's also an area where, just a few years ago, a person was caught in an avalanche and killed.

At the recent training exercise, SAR folks surveyed many other snowmobilers who were just out for fun. More than 50 percent of those folks were not carrying "peeps." Peeps are small radio transceivers that can save lives if someone is caught in an avalanche and buried in the snow. They emit a radio signal that rescuers can follow right to the buried person and dig them out, thus saving their life.

It's really stupid to go into the backcountry on skis, snowshoes or snowmobiles without a peep. If you can afford thousands of dollars for a machine to ride, the cost of a peep is next to nothing. Snowmobilers should also carry skis or snowshoes just in case the machine breaks down. If you have to sit with your machine waiting for help, it will certainly be hours and maybe overnight before help arrives.

Equally important, you should always - winter or summer - have the ability to make a fire and have some kind of emergency rations in case you have to spend the night in the woods. Snowmobilers are usually well-dressed for cold weather, but skiers often lack good footwear. For them, a daypack with dry socks is a good idea, and a light thermal blanket can make huddling around a campfire a lot more comfortable.

Snow conditions this winter have already made snow slides likely, and statewide I know of at least three fatalities. February and March will, no doubt, bring more avalanche danger and the possibility of more fatalities.

Before you go into the woods, check on avalanche dangers. Tell someone reliable where you're going and when you expect to get back. Buy a peep and make sure everyone in your group has one, and check that they are all working before you leave home.

Do those things and you really reduce the risks. Maybe you will never need the peep, but you can have fun practicing with it, and if you ever get caught in a slide, it may save your life - or that of someone you care about.

What do you worry about?