The winter of 2020-21 saw the highest number of avalanche fatalities in the U.S. in the last 70 years - with 37 total avalanche fatalities. Eleven of those fatalities were snowmobilers, and the lack of transceiver use and multiple burials were significant factors. BCA sled ambassador Mike Duffy reports.
Late spring and summer storms can deposit new snow deep enough to avalanche—and that even a small slide can be deadly. BCA ambassador Matt Schonwald shares his first-hand knowledge and tips for how to avoid spring and summer avalanche hazards.
Spring brings the opportunity to travel higher and deeper into the backcountry. Its also a time of high activity from loose wet and wet slab avalanches. Now is a great time to have look at late season snow conditions and be reminded of snowpack, weather and terrain conditions to consider when traveling through avalanche terrain.
Beyond the classic implements for avalanche safety, Alaska heli-ski guide, AIARE instructor, and Squaw avalanche mitigation specialist Lel Tone is clear about the importance of one of the more mental aspects of safety management: humility.
Why do a shovel tilt test? Because the results of the standard compression test could miss the upper layer due to compressing or squishing it. BCA ambassador Josh Kling outlines the best practices for snow stability tests with photos and videos.
BCA is partnering with Ski-Doo snowmobiles and Avalanche1 to offer free avalanche education courses this fall for riders of all brands of snowmobiles. The 2020 avalanche safety seminars will be held online in 16 separate short video episodes.