ESSENTIAL AVALANCHE INFORMATION

The average avalanche travels at a speed of 80m.p.h, so unless you are James Bond with some very jazzy gadgets then there is little possibility of outrunning it. But there are some useful tips to bear in mind.

1. Ensure you shout out loud, so your fellow skiers can hear you.
2. Its easy to say, but try to remain above the snow fold.
3. Try and go with the snow flow and roll down the mountain side to avoid being buried.
4. If you are not buried under the weight of the snow, try to maintain a swimming movement which should help you to keep above it all.
5. Let go of your skis, poles of board as these could add to further injury.
6. Always carry safety equipment as shown in the Safety Equipment section of this website.

What if I am buried by the avalanche?

The first thing to remember is to try and keep an air pocket around your mouth and nose, by covering this area with your hands. Try not to open your mouth. By keeping an air pocket around your face this should give you some breathing space. Try not to panic as you will quickly burn energy which will only make the situation worse.

1. Listen to hear whether anybody is looking for you.
2. If you are in a position to try and dig your way out, try to discover the best way forward. Many people have been lost in avalanches due to the confusion of which way to dig. A tip is to try and dribble down your chin, with gravity showing you which way is up.
3. If you are injured and cannot dig, wait for a signal from rescues before you start shouting to conserve energy.
4. Most importantly, make sure your transreceiver is on.

What if I am witness to an avalanche?

85% of all avalanche survivors are saved by their friends or fellow skiers. By being aware of avalanche risks and carrying the required safety equipment any winter sports enthusiast should be in the position to provide some assistance. But some tips for you anyway.
1. Listen for signs of the victim.
2. Use a probe in the area you think the victim maybe to asses their location.
3. Make sure you make a detail sweep of the suspected area, as if they are injured and making no noise they could be right next to you!
4. Keep searching until help arrives or you find the victim.
5. Call for emergency assistance as soon as possible.
Their life may well depend on you acting calmly and quietly, so take care and don not panic.
This information is provided by Essential Travel as a guide only, please speak to a recognized Avalanche organization for further information.

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