Use Beacons and Probes in the Backcountry!
When you are splitboarding, crosscountry touring, or hiking in the backcountry there are a lot of techniques to use to keep yourself out of an avalanche. But that doesn’t mean you will always completely avoid them.
An avalanche is a scary thing. You hear a cracking sound and the snow pack begins to move underneath you. snow from above begins to slide and topple over you. There isn’t anything you can do, the snow is in complete control. You fumble to push the tracking button on your beacon to put out signal so your friends and climbing buddies can find you! Because you have a beacon, it takes them 5 mins to find a dig you up!
If you do get caught in an avalanche, there is some gear that can easily save your life.
Carrying a beacon and a probe is the easiest way to save your own or your friend’s life.
A beacon can direct you to the location of a buried victim. Search the debris field in a zig zag motion until you find a consistent signal.
Once you have consistent signal, use your directional arrows and distance readings to navigate. Move quickly until you are within about 3 meters.
Move closer to the snow surface and begin searching for the lowest distance reading. Once you are sure, begin probing!
A probe with help you find the exact location and depth of the buried victim. Always probe perpendicular to the slope and in concentric circles.
Once the depth and location has been verified. Begin shoveling!
These techniques for beacon searching and probing can be applied when using any brand of beacon. Salt Lake Surf has a large selecting of beacons and probes from BCA, PIEPS, and Voile. These are available in the shop and online! So come in and check it out!
Good luck out there and be safe!
