Avalanche Rescue

Question 1

What precautions should be taken when crossing an avalanche prone slope?

Answer 1

Detach runaway cables and pole straps
Secure hood tightly covering face.
Trail an avalanche cord
Avoid triggers
Cross as high as possible
When ascending/descending, stay to the side of a potential avalanche track.
Avoid wind loaded, leeward slopes
Avoid terrain Traps
Plan the reaction/include an escape route
Post an observer
Cross 1 at a time
Maintain distance between individuals

Question 2

What actions should you take if caught in an avalanche?

Answer 2

Tell, Try to escape the slab, discard equipment, leave pack on, swim, punch toward the surface, cup your arm around your face, and relax to conserve oxygen.

Question 3

What are the major search techniques for avalanche victims?

Answer 3

Search likely burial areas (rock outcroppings, trees)
Organize a probe line
Spot Probing (near equipment in the snow)
Transceiver search with 20m from flanks and in 40m horizontal increments top to bottom (note book mentions 30m/15m increments, not 40/20).