bca Tracker3 Owner's Manual page 5

This is a basic introduction to avalanche safety and awareness.
We encourage you to read this manual thoroughly. On our website,
you will also find a list of avalanche instructors. We strongly suggest
taking an avalanche course in your area before venturing into the
backcountry.
Before leaving, call your local avalanche forecast center and determine
the danger level in the area you intend to visit.
U.S. www.avalanche.org
N
Canada www.avalanche.ca
Europe www.lawinen.org
Figure B
Avalanche Forecasts
N
W
S
S
Bulletins from your local avalanche forecast center will enable you to
identify the avalanche problems to avoid when planning your route.
Avalanche Awareness
At the trailhead, check that each person has a working beacon, probe
and shovel—and knows how to use them. We also recommend the
use of avalanche airbags and group communication devices, such as
two-way radios.
Learn to recognize avalanche terrain:
• Does this slope have a history of sliding?
• What is the angle and aspect of the slope?
• Will recent weather impact snow stability?
Learn to avoid avalanche terrain:
• Is there any evidence of recent avalanche activity?
• Is the slope angle between 30 and 45 degrees?
• Does the slope you plan to use have dangerous terrain traps
(rocks, trees, gullies, cliffs, etc.)?
E
Low
Moderate
Considerable
E
High
Low
Extreme
Moderate
Considerable
Pockets of next danger level
High
Extreme
Pockets of next danger level
Avalanche Awareness
5