Ski and Snowboarding Safety Information
Information on how to possibly avoid major
disasters like avalanches. Also practical help
on how to deal with minor problems with info
on various types of safety equipment.
Avalanche Safety Equipment
Each person in your group should wear an avalanche
beacon and know how to use it. There is an array
of avalanche beacons available. The important
thing is that you know how to use the one you
are wearing and that you are confident in your
partner’s abilities as well.Probes, used
in conjunction with beacons, can be extremely
helpful in locating a buried skier.
A beacon will be of little help without a shovel.
When you do locate an avalanche victim you must
be able to dig them out. Your hands will not
do the job – we are talking about snow
that has formed into concrete. Always carry
a shovel. Shovels also come in handy for digging
snow pits, shelters and a seat for lunch.
Emergency Supplies
Responsible backcountry travellers should be
prepared for any emergency. Remember, ski patrol
isn’t there to rescue you. This means
carrying plenty of food and water and extra
clothes. You should also carry a basic medical
kit; blisters are more common than avalanches
so be prepared to deal with little medical annoyances.
Evaluating Avalanche Conditions
The best way to survive an avalanche is to avoid
one in the first place. Familiarise yourself
with avalanche hazards and know how to avoid
them. If you aren’t skilled in evaluating
avalanche hazards, travel with someone who is.
Before You Go
Before you venture out be sure to check your
local avalanche conditions. Most areas have
websites that provide information to assess
avalanche conditions and analyse the risk involved.
Practice
Practice using your avalanche beacon. Time is
of the essence in an avalanche rescue.
