Admire the breathtaking panoramic landscapes while freeride skiing. Who else can't wait? Enjoy the peace and quiet of nature far away from the beaten track. Although the adventurous nature of freeriding is incredibly attractive, it also involves risks. That's why it's important to be well prepared. Every year, skiers die in avalanches, often due to a lack of knowledge or preparation. This makes avalanche safety an absolute priority for anyone who goes off the beaten track.
What is an avalanche?
An avalanche is a mass of snow that suddenly moves downward, often with devastating speed and force. Avalanches can be caused by a variety of factors, including temperature changes, new snowfall, wind, and the composition of the snowpack. They can be small, carrying only a thin layer of snow, or large and devastating, with thousands of tons of snow being released at once.
Avalanche safety
1. Prepare yourself: The best way to stay safe is to prepare yourself well. This starts with taking a solid avalanche course. In a course you will learn everything about snow science, recognizing risky situations and what to do if you are caught in an avalanche. In addition, it is crucial to check the avalanche reports before each trip. These provide an up-to-date assessment of the avalanche danger at various locations.
2. Gear is essential: Never set off without the right gear. An avalanche transceiver, shovel, and probe are basic equipment for any freerider. These tools are essential when searching for and rescuing someone buried under snow. In addition, an avalanche airbag can significantly increase your chances of survival by keeping you on top of the avalanche. Make sure you practice with your gear regularly so that you can act quickly and effectively in an emergency.
3. Use your head: Freeriding is not just about technique, it is also about making the right decisions. Avoid steep slopes, especially if there has been a lot of snow recently or if the temperature has risen rapidly. Never ski alone and always maintain eye contact with your skiing friends. Also, trust your intuition: if something doesn't feel right, turn back.
What to do in an avalanche?
If you do get caught in an avalanche, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of survival:
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Stay calm and don't fight the snow. Try to get to the side of the avalanche if possible.
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Set your avalanche beacon to 'transmit' if you get buried. This will help your rescue team find you faster.
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Create an air pocket in front of your mouth with your hands as the snow comes to a stop. This will give you some room to breathe.
After the avalanche
When a friend of yours is buried, every second counts. Use your beacon, probe and shovel to locate and dig your friend out as quickly as possible. Don’t wait for professional rescue services, because the first 15 minutes are crucial. Freeride skiing gives you a feeling of ultimate freedom, but it doesn’t come without risks. By preparing well, using the right equipment and making smart choices, you can enjoy this beautiful sport while minimizing the risks. Never forget that the mountains are unpredictable and that your safety must always come first.
It is recommended to take an avalanche safety course!
