Avalanche and Snow Safety

This information is meant to be an introduction to avalanche safety and a knowledge base for backcountry travelers.

But reading it cannot replace real experience in reading conditions and making decisions in the field. We strongly recommend that all backcountry travelers take instructor-led avalanche courses to get hands-on experience in wild snowpacks. Avoiding dangerous situations involves minimizing the risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Avalanche Burial Facts and Statistics

Avalanche burial is a serious and time-sensitive situation that can result in fatalities. Proper education, training, and the use of avalanche safety equipment are critical in reducing the risk of burial and improving survival rates.

Avalanche Danger Recognition

There are four factors that contribute to overall avalanche danger: weather, snowpack, terrain, and human decision-making. These cause two types of avalanches: either Loose snow or slab avalanches.

Rescue Equipment and Techniques

An overview of standard avalanche rescue equipment, and how it should be used.

Tree Well and Deep Snow Safety

A tree well/snow immersion suffocation accident can happen when a skier or snowboarder falls into a tree well or deep loose snow and becomes immobilized and trapped under the snow and suffocates.

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Snow Safety Information - Terms and Disclaimer

The information contained on this page is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by a combination of authors in the ski industry and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, or related graphics and video contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. In no event will the authors be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data, personal injury, or even death, arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website or the information shared on this website