When snow is falling heavily on your ski trip, avalanches can occur, especially off-piste. So if you’re planning on back country or side country skiing, read this information provided by the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education:
Avalanches are not easy to predict.
Some avalanche paths are active once in every few hundred years, but there are others which are active in almost every storm. However, you can now predict avalanches to a certain extent with the help of certain gadgets and gears. Researchers, too, are looking into past data from previous avalanche
(these are based on accurate weather predictions), and monitor snowfall carefully to be anticipate possible avalanches. While this may not help stop an avalanche, it can, at least, give us a better understanding of what causes an avalanche and provide us warning of an avalanche occurrence.
Get the forecast from local avalanche center.
As avalanches are not easy to predict (unless you have certain gadgets which can help you foresee a possible one), you’ll have to check your local avalanche center and get an updated forecast of the danger rating of the off-piste location that you want to ski on. Use that data as your guide to understanding the terrain for possible avalanches, then make your own field observations for the assessment of the slope as you go.
Do the field observation.
If you are already on the slope, here are a few things that you should look for systematically:
Steepness: Almost all avalanches occur on slopes between 35 and 45 degrees. The slope at a ski resort is usually around 35 degrees maximum.
Anchors: Terrains with thick trees and large rocks that stick up are safer as they help keep the snow pack in place.
Wind Aspect: There are parts of the slopes that are formed due to “wind loading”, which causes large amounts of snow to be deposited in one place. Recently wind-loaded, steep slopes are almost always very dangerous while recently wind-eroded slopes are usually fairly safe.
Get you backcountry gear.
Before you ski on untouched powder off-piste, always bring the backcountry essentials with you€”beacon, shovel, probe and first aid kit.
Get an avalanche safety training.
You must never attempt to ski off-piste without getting an avalanche safety training. Before any ski trips, you should first take an AIARE level one course and learn to identify the slope angle, terrain features, and danger level. You will also learn about decision-making and companion rescue techniques in the training.
Ski with a partner.
Never ski alone. If you’re going backcountry, ski with a knowledgeable and responsible partner. Both of you should also learn to communicate effectively, and practice safe ski or travel techniques.
Focus on decision-making.
Good decision-making skills are your defense against being caught in a landslide. Always remember the avalanche danger signs, and don’t let your powder craving cloud your decisions. Trust your avalanche knowledge and information when choosing safe terrains to ski on.
While skiing is fun, it’s better to be safe than sorry when enjoying your ski trip. Always remember these safety tips and information every time you have a hankering for some off-piste fun.
Original Link: http://goarticles.com/article/Avalanche-Safety-Guide-for-a-Sound-Ski-Trip/9474096/
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