Basic Survival: How to Survive an Avalanche?

They are more common than we think and can happen in a way that is as random as it is probable. We are talking about avalanches, a natural event that astonishes with its raw spectacle but claims hundreds of lives each year.

In fact, though it's difficult to determine how many avalanches occur worldwide each year, it is estimated that around 150,000 happen annually. All of them, despite not seeming like a lot, tend to concentrate in a few locations around the globe, so encountering one shouldn't be that strange.

Their danger comes from two main factors: they are completely unpredictable and occur even in areas considered absolutely safe. They can reach speeds of up to 50 miles per hour (80 kilometers per hour) and can sweep away people and objects in their path with a crushing and deadly force.

As it is always important, we are here to explain 9 things you should keep in mind if you encounter an avalanche while hiking, skiing, or simply admiring the landscape: they could save your life.

If you plan to go into the mountains, make sure you have all the necessary equipment and know how to use it. Among them, if you are a regular mountaineer, it is essential to have a transceiver, a probe, and a shovel. It is also critical to know the current snow and weather conditions, planning your route accordingly.

Do not take unnecessary risks and avoid areas known for avalanches. While they are random and unpredictable, it is better to avoid areas that are not marked as safe on the route. If you want to be completely sure, speak with a mountain guide or someone with experience in the area.

Before venturing into an unknown area, it is vital to study the terrain you will be moving through. Before any expedition, we must learn about the slopes we will be on, their steepness, depressions, and the main characteristics of the terrain that could be dangerous.

It is important to glance at the areas where snow can accumulate: gullies, depressions, and slopes with little vegetation are usually critical points.

If you are skiing or snowboarding with others, there is one main rule: maintain a safe distance between each person. If one is caught in an avalanche, the others should be far enough away to avoid being swept away as well.

If you are in an avalanche-prone area, make sure to carry and know how to use avalanche safety equipment. This includes a transceiver, a device that emits radio signals to locate people buried under snow; a probe, a long pole used to locate buried individuals, and a shovel to dig in the snow. It is also important that all equipment is in good condition and functioning before heading into the mountains.

If an avalanche occurs and you find yourself trapped in the snow, try to remain calm. The most important thing is to try to move your limbs to create space around your body. If you are with others, try to communicate with them to see if they are okay and coordinate rescue efforts.

If you have a transceiver, turn it on and ensure others have theirs turned on as well. This will help rescue teams locate buried individuals. If you have a probe, use it to locate buried people. If you find someone, immediately dig them out of the snow with the shovel. If you do not have safety equipment, try to dig yourself out with your hands and reach the surface as soon as possible.

Once you have escaped from the snow, seek medical help as soon as possible. Survivors of avalanches can suffer severe injuries, such as hypothermia and head injuries. Seek medical help even if you do not feel injured, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.

After surviving an avalanche, take some time before your next outing to learn from the experience. Reflect on what you could have done differently and how you can avoid similar situations in the future. This last step, though it may seem trivial, is one of the most important: there is no greater lesson than what can be lived firsthand.