How do I prepare for an avalanche?

Practice locating buried victims often. Practice before every trip. Avoid avalanche prone areas. If you must use a route that is prone to avalanche, use the following precautions.

1 Turn on your avalanche transceivers. If you don't have an avalanche transceiver, tie a bright colored cord to you and let it trail 30 or more feet behind you.

2 Zip up and button up your jacket. Put on your hood and pull the drawstring tight, even if you are hot. This will help prevent hypothermia if you are buried.

3 Unclip your belt and chest strap. Have the shoulder strap loose on your shoulder. Be prepared to throw off your pack if an avalanche occurs.

4 Cross the danger area one person at a time.