Todd Offenbacher and Mike Mosca practice searches at the new Beacon Basin located at the Lake Valley Fire Protection District (LVFPD) station in Meyers

A Beacon Basin for avalanche transceiver practice and training is now open at the Lake Valley Fire Protection District (LVFPD) station in Meyers. As more people are getting out in the Tahoe backcountry, there is an increased need for individuals to learn how to use their avalanche safety equipment. The Beacon Basin is open Thursday through Sunday throughout the winter months.

The Meyers Community Foundation and Sierra Avalanche Center have donated the majority of funds for the Beacon Basin equipment to the fire department. The Lake Valley Fire Protection District will maintain it and coordinate free transceiver trainings once or twice per month.

The Meyers Community Foundation would like to help raise the remaining $1000 to pay for the Beacon Basin, and are reaching out to the community to get involved. Those interested in donating toward the Beacon Basin please go to http://www.meyerscommunityfoundation.org/take-action/. All funds received will go toward the Beacon Basin and are tax deductible.

Additionally, the LVFPD is offering free air canister refills for backcountry airbags. The airbags keep people on the surface in case of an avalanche and are now required for ski patrol at almost every ski resort in the country. As the service is free, it will allow people to practice pulling the air bag prior to heading out on the mountain.

The Beacon Basin will not be open during larger storm cycles because of snow removal operations. For updates on trainings or announcements regarding the Beacon Basin, go to https://www.facebook.com/LakeValleyFire/ or call (530) 577-3737.

The Meyers Community Foundation is a 501(c)(3) dedicated to improving life in Meyers, California through its support and promotion of creative and sustainable local projects and community-enhancing events like the annual holiday tree lighting and the OMG Fun Run.