Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for improving the safety of a snow-related recreational device. The apparatus is attachable to the equipment and preferably provides a function compatible with normal use of the equipment as well, such as functioning as a stomp pad for a snow board during snow board use. The apparatus preferably includes some means for determining the location of the equipment user should a risky situation, such as an avalanche or white-out develop. An instructional graphical display, explaining to a user the proper method of use of the location determining means, is preferably integral to the apparatus. The apparatus may be removeably attachable to the equipment to enable a user of multiple pieces of equipment, such as multiple snow boards, to move the apparatus from one piece to another.