Staying Safe in Avalanche Terrain: Tips for Backcountry Travelers

March 4, 2023 - By Ariane Rasori

Staying Safe in Avalanche Terrain: Tips for Backcountry Travelers

Winter sports enthusiasts, including skiers, snowboarders, snowshoers, and hikers, all enjoy exploring the beauty of the backcountry during the winter months. But with the thrill of backcountry exploration comes the risk of avalanches. According to the National Avalanche Center, avalanches cause an average of 28 deaths and many more injuries each year in the United States alone. In this blog, we will discuss some important tips for staying safe in avalanche terrain.

Educate Yourself: The first step in staying safe in avalanche terrain is to educate yourself about the risks and how to mitigate them. Take an avalanche safety course from a reputable organization, such as the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE). Learn how to read avalanche terrain, how to use rescue equipment, and how to make informed decisions in the field.
Check Avalanche Forecast: Before heading into avalanche terrain, check the avalanche forecast for the area. The forecast will provide information about current snow conditions, the likelihood of avalanches, and the expected size and scope of any potential avalanches. Be aware that conditions can change rapidly, and it’s important to keep checking the forecast throughout your trip. Avalanche.org connects the public to formal avalanche information and education in the United States.
Travel with a Partner: Always travel with a partner, preferably one who has avalanche training and experience. If one of you gets caught in an avalanche, the other can assist with rescue and call for help if needed. Tip: take an Avalanche course with the buddy or groups that you plan to be touring in the backcountry with. This way you get to practice with each other and learn how to work together if a rescue situation needed to take place.
Wear Proper Equipment: Always wear a beacon, shovel, and probe, and know how to use them. A beacon is an electronic device that transmits a signal that can be picked up by a rescue team in the event of an avalanche. A shovel and probe are used to locate and dig out a buried person. Make sure your equipment is in good working order and that you know how to use it before heading out into avalanche terrain. Watch Essential Rescue Equipment
Stay Alert: Keep a watchful eye on the snow conditions and be aware of any signs of instability, such as recent avalanches, cracking or collapsing snow, or visible snow layers. If conditions don’t feel safe, turn back. Travel Safely with Buddies
Avoid Risky Terrain: Avoid terrain with a slope angle greater than 30 degrees. This is the slope angle at which avalanches are most likely to occur. If you must travel in avalanche terrain, do so during times of low avalanche risk, such as after a prolonged period of cold weather. How to identify Avalanche Terrain.
Know Your Limits: Be honest about your own abilities and experience level. Don’t push yourself beyond your limits or attempt terrain that is beyond your skill level.
Communicate: Communicate with your partner and others in your group about your observations and decisions. Don’t be afraid to speak up if you feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

In conclusion, staying safe in avalanche terrain requires education, preparation, and vigilance. By following these tips and taking a cautious approach to backcountry travel, you can enjoy the beauty of winter landscapes while minimizing the risk of avalanches.