Introduction
This guide supports risk assessment and decision-making in avalanche terrain. It does not replace certified training—carry beacon, probe, shovel and a capable partner.
Essence / steps
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Plan: weather & bulletins
Check the avalanche bulletin, wind/snow/temp and set a goal matching the danger level. Define “turn-around triggers”.
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Terrain & aspect
Avoid slopes 30–45° on critical aspects; beware terrain traps. Travel ridges and islands of safety.
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Red flags
Recent avalanches, whumpf, shooting cracks, rapid loading by wind/snow, rapid warming. One = increase caution; several = turn back.
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Group & emergency
One-at-a-time crossings; spotter in a safe zone. Practice beacon-probe-shovel; alert rescue as soon as feasible.
Typical mistakes
- Discounting bulletins and subtle warnings.
- Multiple people on the same suspect slope.
- No pre-agreed turn-around triggers.
- Poor beacon/probe/shovel practice.
Questions
What slope angles are most prone?
Most avalanches release on 30–45° slopes; steeper is harder to hold, flatter fails less often.
What if I hear a “whumpf”?
That’s a collapsing weak layer—exit immediately to safe terrain and reassess.
Instructor’s tip
“Your sharpest tool is judgment—sometimes the safest summit is the café.”
Conclusion
Disciplined planning, terrain reading and group tactics cut risk dramatically. Refresh skills often with certified courses.