Avalanches pose a significant danger during winter recreation, especially for those exploring backcountry terrain. Awareness and preparation are key to staying safe on the slopes, whether you’re at a ski resort or venturing into less-controlled areas.
What Triggers Avalanches?
Avalanches happen when the snow loses stability and slides down a slope. This can be caused by natural factors like heavy snowfall, rain-on-snow events, or rapid melting. According to Brian Lazar, Deputy Director of the Colorado Avalanche Information Center, these natural events often result in spontaneous avalanches.
However, human activity also plays a role. “People causing stress on a snowpack can also cause an avalanche,” said Lazar. This is why understanding the conditions and planning your route carefully are crucial before heading out.
Safety Tips for Backcountry Skiing
Planning ahead and being equipped with essential gear can make a huge difference. Lazar emphasized the importance of route planning based on current avalanche forecasts, which provide valuable information about snow conditions.
- Slope Selection: Skiing on slopes less than 30 degrees steep, with no steeper overhead hazards, is generally safer.
- Essential Gear: Backcountry travelers should carry:
- Avalanche transceiver for locating buried individuals.
- Avalanche shovel for digging out snow.
- Avalanche probe to pinpoint a person’s location under the snow.
- Trained Partners: Ensure your group has practiced using safety gear together.
“This is the minimum equipment needed to handle an avalanche emergency,” Lazar noted.
How Ski Resorts Reduce Risks
Ski resorts employ specialized teams to manage avalanche risks within their boundaries. Snow safety teams and ski patrols use methods like ski cutting or controlled explosions to stabilize snowpacks and minimize threats.
Lazar assured, “Inside a ski area, you’ve got dedicated ski patrols with snow safety teams that work very diligently to reduce the threat from avalanches.” These measures make resort skiing much safer compared to backcountry exploration.
Why It’s Worth Paying Attention
Even experienced skiers can fall victim to avalanches, making awareness and preparation vital for everyone. Avalanches don’t discriminate—they can occur suddenly and with devastating consequences. Following the advice of experts, staying informed about conditions, and using proper equipment are the best ways to enjoy winter recreation safely.
