Avalanche Beacons & Gear
Essential Avalanche Backcountry Equipment
Skiers and snowboarders venturing off-piste and into the backcountry should always have avalanche equipment with them. The three key items are an avalanche beacon, probe, and shovel. Equally crucial is ensuring the user has been trained to operate this equipment if an avalanche occurs. All these items can be stored in a ski backpack that can be securely strapped to your body.
Utilising Avalanche Equipment
To learn how to use avalanche gear, a course led by a professional is recommended. Here, we provide a basic overview of what each item is used for.
Avalanche Beacon
Worn close to the body, avalanche beacons emit continuous radio signals that other beacons can detect. For locating an individual beneath the snow, beacons can be switched to "search mode," allowing them to receive the necessary radio signal.
Avalanche Probe
A probe is used to determine the precise location and depth of a person beneath the snow. Resembling a collapsible tent-pole, it can be inserted into the snow to locate the skier.
Avalanche Shovel
The shovel is employed to dig out a skier. Typically, these have an attachable shovel handle, making them easy to fit into a backpack.
Airbag Packs
An additional safety equipment worth considering is an airbag pack. Worn as a backpack, it can be activated by pulling a handle, inflating the airbag quickly using compressed air or a fan. The extra air mass helps keep the skier on top of the moving snow and avalanche debris, reducing the risk of burial.
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