Avalanche Safety Tips
What Is an Avalanche?
An avalanche is a rapid flow of snow down a slope, often triggered by natural causes such as
heavy snowfall, rain, wind, or rapid temperature changes, or by human activity such as skiing
or explosions. Avalanches can reach speeds of up to 300 km/h (190 mph) and carry enormous
amounts of snow, ice, and debris. They are one of the most dangerous natural hazards in
mountainous regions, killing hundreds of people every year worldwide.
Warning Signs of Avalanche Risk
- Recent avalanche activity: Fresh avalanche debris or cracks in the snow are strong warning signs.
- Hollow "whumpf" sound: A collapsing sound underfoot means weak snow layers are present.
- Shooting cracks: Cracks shooting out from your footsteps or skis indicate unstable snow.
- Heavy snowfall or rain: New snow loading within 24 hours significantly increases risk.
- Wind loading: Strong winds blowing snow onto lee slopes creates unstable slabs.
Before Going into Avalanche Terrain (Prepare)
- Check the local avalanche forecast before heading out — always know the danger rating for the day.
- Carry the essential rescue equipment: avalanche transceiver (beacon), probe, and shovel — and know how to use them.
- Never travel alone in avalanche terrain — always go with a group and take an avalanche safety course.
- Plan your route carefully — avoid steep slopes (30–45°), convex rolls, and lee slopes after wind events.
- Tell someone your plans — where you're going and when you expect to return.
During an Avalanche (Survive)
- Try to escape to the side of the avalanche path if possible.
- Ditch heavy gear (skis, poles, backpack) to move faster.
- If caught, fight to stay on the surface — swim motions help.
- As the snow slows, cover your face and create an air pocket.
- Don't shout — save your oxygen and energy.
- Don't try to dig upward if buried — spit to find which way is down.
- Try to keep one hand above the snow surface as it slows.
- Stay calm — panic wastes oxygen in your air pocket.
After an Avalanche (Rescue)
- Call emergency services immediately — every minute counts for buried victims.
- Use your avalanche beacon to locate buried victims — switch to search mode.
- Probe the snow to pinpoint the exact location before digging.
- Dig strategically from the side — not straight down — to reach the victim faster.
- Watch for secondary avalanches — the slope may still be unstable.
- Treat victims for hypothermia and traumatic injuries while waiting for help.