Always check not only the slope inclination, but also inclination of the overhanging cliffs
After 2-3 days fresh snow connects much better
<1.2 meters fresh snow is really succeptible to avalanches (?)
The first guy has 80% chance to trigger the avalanche
Collect the info about the slopes while going up
Sunny or not sunny side can have same chances of avalanche, depends on the specific parameters
Getting warmer can also make more chances for avalanche
Lavis.ch
Airbag doesn’t make it worse, but on traps, where there is no segregation, it won’t help
Avalanche rescue:
Firstest thing - assess the situation: is it safe to do search? Who’s missing? Did they have beacons on?
Then - distribute responsibilities: someone’s calling rescue (knowing the exact location is super helpful, ortovox app might help), the other guys are organizing into a search party
Locate the spot where the guy(s) were seen last, mark it and search from that spot(s) below
Before beeper search do a visual check of the avalanche field first
On avalanche field clip off and walk for search, because it’s like a bumpy concrete
20-30 meters is the signal distance between lines of search
For raw search walk fast, for fine search (< 15m) - slow
Fine search - keep close to the ground, go on your knees
When found minimal value on axis, mark the spot and do perpendicular like check
Wait for 2 increasing measurements to consider direction as false
Proceed until there is no smaller number, whichever it might be (0.2 or 2.2)
Probing in spiral, marking the spot with the probe
Probing should be done 90° to the slope in a confident movement
Multiple colored section probes are much easier to read
Then shovelling, work in group
Shovel not too close to the probe - we’re digging the guy from the side
First thing - uncover mouth, check vitals
If not breathing - do CPR, put him on a flat, solid surface
Don’t let the unburied do exercises or he might collapse
In multiple burial scenario dig the mouth, check the vitals, switch off his beacon and proceed with search of others
Try to practice avalanche safety more or less regularly
Do the first aid course
Buy the gear, and buy a backpack with a special compartment if possible - seconds which it takes to find and deploy gear do matter