Gear to Bring When Hiking in Avalanche Terrain
Using an Avalanche Beacon, Shovel, Probe Poles, and More
Nov 14, 2009
When hiking or snowshoeing during the winter months, it’s a good idea to bring along some important tools if traveling in avalanche territory. They can make the difference for surviving an avalanche.
Bringing an Avalanche Transceiver into The Backcountry
An avalanche transceiver is the most important piece of gear to bring into an avalanche-prone area. The device emits a signal that, when received by another transceiver switched to “receive” mode allows the user to quickly locate an avalanche victim.
Note that these devices are different from personal locator beacons. They do not transmit a signal to a satellite system to notify rescue personnel. Avalanche transceivers are designed to be used on-site.
Bringing a Shovel in Case of Avalanches
Besides the avalanche transceiver, the second most important piece of gear to bring along in the winter is the shovel. It is a simple tool, but very critical when an avalanche occurs. A sturdy shovel can cut through packed snow to reach a victim.
There are several kinds of shovel designs on the market. However, a shovel with a metal blade will be able to cut through ice and packed in snow more easily than one made of plastic. Also, avalanche shovels are designed to be compact and portable, with telescopic handles. Sometimes they are designed to house an avalanche probe pole set as well.
Bringing an Avalanche Probe Pole
A probe pole is another useful tool for winter travelers. The pole looks a lot like a long tent pole, and can collapse easily into a pack. When fully extended the pole is thrust into the snow in an area where the searcher believes there is an avalanche victim. The probe pole can be used effectively after a searcher has narrowed the search area with a transceiver to a few feet, and can help pinpoint where to dig.
Using an Avalung in Avalanche Terrain
The Avalung is a device designed by Black Diamond that allows skiers and riders to breath when buried in an avalanche. Basically, the rider breathes through their mouth into the device, which allows the user to extract oxygen from the snow and disperse carbon dioxide. When used correctly it can extend the amount of time someone can remain buried under snow before suffocating.
Other Appropriate Gear to Bring in Avalanche Terrain
Besides the above tools, having the following pieces of gear can make a big difference in a backcountry emergency.
Clothing layers: Having adequate layers of clothing, including a hat and gloves, can help keep a backcountry hiker warm. By using layers one can remove a layer when being active and add layers when feeling cold.
Food and water: Staying hydrated and eating right will help one keep a clear head and maintain energy in an emergency.
First aid kit: Once the victim has been dug up, he/she may need medical attention.
Training: The best piece of gear sits between the shoulders. Train how to use an avalanche beacon and rescue equipment from a guide service or outdoor education program, and practice these skills every year before going out-of-bounds.
By knowing how to use avalanche safety equipment such as a transceiver, shovel, probe poles, and other gear, backcountry travelers can increase their odds of surviving an avalanche.
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