on-line learning

This is where we help you develop your understanding and resources for safe travel in avalanche terrain.

1. To understand why avalanches occur you need to know  about:

• Snow - how the snow pack forms and changes, and characteristics and types of avalanche

• Slopes - the influence of terrain angle, aspect, shape and features

• Triggers - human and natural

2. To avoid being caught in an avalanche you need:

• Information - forecasts, maps, guidebooks, group characteristics, experience, equipment, etc. before you start

• Observation - of the conditions and terrain when you arrive and throughout your journey, and also people

• Decision making - to take the correct option based on the above (probably the most important part of safe travel in avalanche terrain)

3. If you are involved in an avalanche you need to:

• Observe - last point seen, visual clues, and dangers to rescuers

• Organise - equipment and best use of people

• Search & emergency care - quick and effective use of transceiver, probe and shovel, emergency call and immediate casualty care