Are you planning a lengthy trip by car this winter? Know how to prepare, and know that the decisions that need to be made will differ depending on where you are on the Winter Travel Timeline:
You are absolutely right! Avalanche danger is a serious threat in many mountainous regions, and it’s important to be aware of the risks before heading out into the backcountry. Here are some key things to keep in mind:
- Check the avalanche forecast: Before you go, always check the latest avalanche forecast for your area. This will give you an overview of the current conditions and the level of danger. You can find forecasts from the following organizations:
- The Avalanche Center
- The National Weather Service
- Utah Avalanche Center
- Colorado Avalanche Information Center
- Take an avalanche safety course: If you’re planning on spending any time in avalanche terrain, it’s essential to take an avalanche safety course. This will teach you how to identify avalanche hazards, use avalanche safety equipment, and make safe decisions in the backcountry.
- Carry the right equipment: If you’re heading into avalanche terrain, you should always carry the following equipment:
- An avalanche beacon
- A probe
- A shovel
- Know your limits: Don’t push your limits or venture into terrain that is beyond your ability level. Even experienced backcountry travelers can get caught in avalanches.
By following these tips, you can help to reduce your risk of being caught in an avalanche. However, it’s important to remember that there is no such thing as a completely safe avalanche. The best way to stay safe is to avoid avalanche terrain altogether.
The American Avalanche Association (AAA) is a non-profit organization that aims to prevent and mitigate avalanches in the United States. It was founded in 1950 by a group of ski patrollers and mountaineers who recognized the need for better avalanche education and awareness.
The AAA works to achieve its goals through a variety of programs and activities, including:
- Education: The AAA offers a variety of avalanche education courses, from basic awareness to professional-level training. These courses teach people how to identify avalanche hazards, make safe decisions in avalanche terrain, and use avalanche safety equipment.Opens in a new windowwww.snowbird.comAvalanche education course
- Research: The AAA supports avalanche research to improve our understanding of these deadly events. This research helps to develop better forecasting methods, mitigation techniques, and rescue protocols.
- Outreach: The AAA works to raise awareness of avalanche danger and promote avalanche safety through public outreach programs. These programs include presentations, media campaigns, and partnerships with other organizations.
The AAA is a valuable resource for anyone who spends time in avalanche terrain, whether for recreation or work. By supporting the AAA, you can help to keep yourself and others safe in the mountains.
Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:
- The American Avalanche Association website: https://avalanche.org/
- The National Avalanche Center: <invalid URL removed>
- The Utah Avalanche Center: https://utahavalanchecenter.org/
- The Colorado Avalanche Information Center: https://avalanche.state.co.us/