1. Assess avalanche risk with the current forecast and terrain

Avalanche release reflects snowpack stability, recent snow, wind and temperature changes, slope and terrain, and human loading. No single slope angle establishes safety, and one snow pit or stability test cannot certify an entire slope as safe. Check the local avalanche forecast, danger rating, avalanche problems, elevation bands, aspects, and recent weather immediately before departure and update the plan as conditions change.

Danger ratings are local and time dependent; “Considerable” is not a low-risk green light. Choose terrain that avoids the problems and terrain traps identified in the forecast. If visibility, weather, or group condition changes, alter the route or turn around. Gullies, depressions, cliffs, and runout zones can increase burial or trauma consequences.

As a hypothetical route-reading example, if a bulletin identifies north- and east-facing slopes within a particular elevation band, mark both crossings of those slopes and travel or waiting points below them. A gentle approach can still lie beneath an avalanche path. If the group cannot identify a route avoiding the problem terrain, change the objective or cancel rather than treating equipment as permission to proceed. This illustrates how to apply a bulletin; it is not an assessment of a real slope.

2. Limit exposure and agree on a team plan

Before travel, agree on the route, safe waiting areas, islands of safety, one-at-a-time crossing points, and retreat options. Check for overhead avalanche paths and keep visual contact while only one person is exposed at a time. These practices do not eliminate risk; if the forecast advises avoiding the terrain, choose another route or cancel the activity.

Each person should carry an avalanche transceiver, probe, and metal shovel on their person and practice using them. Equipment is not permission to enter dangerous terrain. Do not override a forecast with a snow test or personal experience. If you see signs of instability or conditions differ from the bulletin, move to safer terrain and reduce exposure.

3. Assign an emergency call according to available rescuers

First assess whether rescuers face another avalanche. Trained companions begin rescue using the last-seen point and surface clues, switching transceivers to search mode. Avalanche Canada says that when spare rescuers and a suitable communication device are available, assign one person to call at least 25m from transceiver searchers to avoid electronic interference. Learn roles and call timing in training before departure so that, with too few rescuers, making a call does not delay companion rescue. Do not assume that waiting for organized rescue is sufficient.

Burial survival cannot be summarized by one universal percentage at a fixed number of minutes. Outcomes vary with burial depth, an air pocket near the airway, trauma, snow conditions, and time to rescue. Companion rescue is an emergency response; proceed as quickly as safely possible while accounting for rescuer safety and training.

4. Probing and excavation in Avalanche Canada training

Avalanche Canada AvySavvy companion-rescue training teaches rescuers to mark the lowest reading in a transceiver fine search, probe systematically, and leave the probe at the strike to preserve the excavation location. This summarizes a trained rescue procedure; it does not justify entering avalanche terrain. Conduct signal search, direction following, and fine search systematically. During the fine search, slow down and narrow the location using the device display and the instructions taught for that transceiver. Probe systematically, close to perpendicular to the snow surface, and leave the probe in place when you locate the person. Spacing and procedure can vary with the training method and equipment.

Excavation can take substantial time and effort. When several rescuers are available, use an efficient downhill shoveling line and clear the face and chest as a priority. Open and protect the airway, assess breathing, provide first aid, address cold exposure, and hand over to professional rescuers. This overview cannot replace hands-on practice. Before remote travel, take recognized avalanche training and learn to use the local forecast.

Sources and references: Avalanche Canada: Avalanche Forecasts / Avalanche Canada AvySavvy: Probing / AvySavvy: Forecast / AvySavvy: Good Travel Habits / AvySavvy: Shovelling / AvySavvy: When to Call for Help