We all love spending time in the backcountry, and (hopefully) eveyone knows that having the proper gear with you is essential. All of us at Catskiing.ca carry our Back Country Access beacons, probes, and shovels, and regularly practice how to use them when we are out skiing in the backcountry. What we love about BCA, is their philosophy on avalanche safety:
"At BCA, our mission is to save lives, not just pump products. As a leader in our industry, we need to be responsible about sending people into the backcountry. They need to be equipped not just with products, but with education. That’s why we’ve invested so much in research and education."
Having the right equipment is key, but if you don't know how to use it, you're almost in as much trouble as if you didn't have it at all. Take time to learn with trained guides/instructors, and practice your techniques to get better. In addition to that, there are some great online resources. Check out http://backcountryaccess.com/english/education/education.php for lots of info and education tips. Have fun out there and stay safe.