Avalanche Safety 101

If you’re planning on spending any time in the mountains this season, or if you have a Banff adventure booked, knowing the proper avalanche safety techniques is paramount. Follow these avalanche safety tips and protect yourself this winter!

Get Educated with Avalanche Training AST 1 or AST 2 courses

Before planning any backcountry skiing excursion or alpine adventure, be sure to take an avalanche training course. Look for a company that offers Avalanche Safety Training Level 1 and Level 2 in the Banff area and book your space in the course. These courses are instructed by trained professionals through the Canadian Avalanche Association and ACMG, and they include hands-on training.

Be Prepared for Avalanche Safety

You can prepare yourself for a potential avalanche by taking the proper courses, learning how to use the appropriate avalanche equipment and then practicing with it. Keep up with current avalanche bulletins in the area, wear a rescue beacon and make sure you have all the proper tools with you before beginning any backcountry skiing or riding excursion.

Practice Avalanche Safety Through Awareness

When you’re in the mountains, always be on the lookout for signs of danger. Always travel in a group of people who have minimum AST 1. Take note of snowpack problems, steep slopes and freshly accumulated snow.

Avalanche Safety During an Avalanche

If you happen to get caught in an avalanche, try to keep a clear mind and remember your training. Do your best to grab onto the protruding branches of a tree, and use all your strength to swim to the surface. If someone in your group requires rescue from an avalanche, evaluate the risk to your own safety before helping. You should bring a compact avalanche shovel and avalanche probe as part of your equipment.

The mountains are beautiful, but they can also be dangerous. An avalanche course is essential for anyone considering booking an alpine adventure or going backcountry skiing or snowboarding.

If you’re ready to try some new activities and get outside, Banff is the perfect place to start! At Alpine Air Adventures we pride ourselves on providing safe and fun mountaineering courses for all skill levels and abilities.

Ready to choose your next adventure? Contact us today!
https://alpineairadventures.com/