BE PREPARED FOR AN

AVALANCHE

People caught in avalanches can die from suffocation, trauma, or hypothermia. An average of 28 people die in avalanches every winter in the U.S.

An avalanche is a large amount of snow moving quickly down a mountain. People caught beneath the heavy snow from an avalanche may not be able to dig out.

Can be caused by people, new snow, and wind

Can move at speeds of 60-80 mph

PROTECT YOURSELF FROM AN AVALANCHE

  • Get training on how to recognize hazardous conditions and locations to avoid.

  • Before you run, know the exits.

    Learn how to properly use safety equipment.

  • Use proper equipment. This should include helmets and materials to create pockets of air if trapped.

    Use proper equipment. This should include helmets and materials to create pockets of air if trapped.

  • Use devices to support rescue.

    Use devices to support rescue.

  • Sign up for alerts on current avalanche dangers.

    Sign up for alerts on current avalanche dangers.

  • Use a guide familiar with the area. Always have a buddy.

    Use a guide familiar with the area. Always have a buddy.

Hazard Scope and Impact

Experts also have used the term avalanche for other hazards including avalanches of rock and debris caused by volcanoes and earthquakes.

Death and Injuries Impact

The most common cause of snow avalanche-related deaths was asphyxia, along with trauma and hypothermia. The largest casualty groups included backcountry skiers, snowmobilers, and climbers. The U.S. seasonal average of avalanche deaths from 1998-2014 was 29.

Effective Protective Action Timeframes

Knowing how to recognize and avoid the hazard is the only highly effective Protective Action. During the event, Protective Actions are “last resort” actions that are dependent on advance training, equipment, and conditional on the specific circumstances.