Decalogue of safety measures and good habits for mountain users in areas with avalanche danger

1. Prepare the exit

All members must know which avalanches are expected, location and size indicated in the avalanche danger bulletin. You need to identify both on the map and in your head the critical places where you will have to decide. Prepare a conservative plan B.

2. Carry and know how to properly use DVA (Avalanche Victim Detector), Shovel and Probe

Do the DVA check of the whole group. If someone doesn't wear it or it fails, they can't go out. You must be well trained in the use of all safety equipment: DVA, shovel and probe. It is recommended to evaluate the acquisition of other safety equipment (Avalung, ABS backpack, transmitter, etc.).

3. Use safe material

Do not wear material that serves as an anchor in case of susceptibility to an avalanche: put on lanyards and straps. The straps can be replaced with brakes and the dragoons can be worn without putting them on.

4. Always trace to the safest place

If necessary, open your own trail avoiding relying on the judgment of strangers.

5. Never expose to the whole group at the same time

On slopes of more than 30º ski one at a time maintaining visual contact. Gather the group always in a safe place, away from slopes that could give rise to avalanches. Adapt your behavior to the snow conditions.

6. Always keep the consequences in mind

You need a lot of experience to assess the stability of the snow but not to assess the consequences. Be foresight and always assess what will happen if an avalanche occurs at the place and time you are.

7. Constantly re-evaluate your decisions

Always assess what is changing in the terrain, in the snow, and in the group (including yourself) as you drive through snowy terrain.

8. Maintains good communication within the group

It is necessary to create an atmosphere of good communication: to speak but also and equally important to listen. Only in this way will we be in the case of what concerns or worries us all, from the most novice to the most experienced.

9. Get educated and informed

There are always new things to learn and new experiences to share. You can never be an expert enough.

10. Be conservative

Consider a wide margin of uncertainty in your decisions. The mountains won't move and even the snow may be better another day.