Wednesday, January 10, 2007

Avalanche Tips

You don't have to be a skier/snowboarder to get caught in an avalanche. The recent avy on Berthoud Pass proves that. Cross-country skiers, snowmobilers, and snowshoers can be at risk too. It's good to know what you should do in case you ever find yourself in such a scary situation. Here are some tips:

If you are snowmobiling, push yourself away from your sled to avoid being injured by it.
Try to stay on the surface of the avalanche by using a swimming motion.
Work yourself toward the side of the avalanche.
Grab trees, rocks, etc to avoid being swept down the slope.
Keep your mouth closed and your teeth clenched.

If you find yourself going under-
Try to continually push yourself toward the surface.
Make an air pocket in front of your face using one arm or wiggle your head if you can't move your arms.
Push an arm upward to attempt to have a visual marker for rescuers
If trapped, relax your breathing. Shout only when rescuer is near.

If you have any other tips, leave a comment!

No comments: