[REQ_ERR: OPERATION_TIMEDOUT] [404] kclnotwrk This Is Why You Need Avalanche Training - Whitelines...

Share

Features

This Is Why You Need Avalanche Training

A cautionary tale from the Swiss alps – and a first hand example of the panic that strikes in rescue situations.

The rescuers were lucky to spot James’ pole on this occasion – as it’s likely that without transceivers they would have been unable to locate him otherwise

This video – and the victim’s post-event blog that accompanies it – serve as a comprehensive example of what you should be aware of in off-piste situations; and while this one thankfully ended with all parties safe, it effectively highlights a number of problems that can arise with insufficient training and equipment – or when you ignore the warning signs and take risks.

As described in James Mort’s full blog account, this event occurred when the avalanche risk was high (4/5), and when only he, the buried skier, was wearing a transceiver. By his own admission, he had also chosen to ride despite the warning sign of the ‘whumping’ sound underfoot – reasoning that he had ridden the line previously and the area had a minimal pitch and low exposure.

James was clear-headed enough to push his pole through the surface of the snow, and fortunate that the rescuers saw it; it’s likely that without transceivers of their own they would have been unable to locate him. In fact, as a further indicator of the intensity of the situation, he describes that it took a whole hour to fully free him from the snow – even with the help of two ski patrol members who arrived after the end of the video.

As we’ve said before – and you should hopefully now realise – preparation and knowledge is absolutely key for all parties in off-piste situations. The efforts of James’s friends thankfully saved his life in this situation, but it’s also clear that as a group they were underprepared and under-equipped. Make sure you get yourself trained before you head out and are carrying the holy trinity at all times.

If you’re stuck on where to start, take a look at our Top 5 Avalanche Safety Tips, and stay safe.

Newsletter Terms & Conditions

Please enter your email so we can keep you updated with news, features and the latest offers. If you are not interested you can unsubscribe at any time. We will never sell your data and you'll only get messages from us and our partners whose products and services we think you'll enjoy.

Read our full Privacy Policy as well as Terms & Conditions.

production