Avalanche Awareness

What is an avalanche?

• A controlled release of water from a dam.

• A sudden burst of wind in a valley.

• A rapid flow of snow down a sloping surface.

• A slow flow of sand down a hill.

What are the main factors that contribute to an avalanche?

• Steep slopes, snow accumulation, weak snow layers, trigger

• Flat terrain, rain, high winds, sunny weather

How can you stay safe if you are caught in an avalanche?

• Move to the side, swim, create an air pocket, stay calm

• Lie down and cover your head

• Yell loudly

• Jump up and down

What is the difference between a slab avalanche and a loose snow avalanche?

• The color of the snow

• The presence of trees in the avalanche path

• The time of day the avalanche occurs

• The main difference is in the behavior of the snow mass during the avalanche event.

What is a snowpack and why is it important in avalanche formation?

• Snowpack is a collection of snow on the ground that can vary in density and structure. It is important in avalanche formation because a weak layer within the snowpack can collapse under the weight of new snow or a person, triggering an avalanche.

• Snowpack is a term used to describe a group of snowmen

• Snowpack is a type of ice cream flavor

• Snowpack is a type of winter clothing

What are some common warning signs of an impending avalanche?

• Lack of snow on the ground

• Heavy rain

• Recent snowfall, wind-drifted snow, rapid temperature changes, cracking or collapsing snowpack, visible avalanche activity

• Stable snowpack

What should you do if you see someone caught in an avalanche?

• Call for help and do not attempt a rescue yourself.

• Run towards the avalanche to help

• Ignore the situation and continue with your activities

• Take a selfie with the avalanche victim

What is the best way to travel in avalanche terrain?

• Ignore avalanche safety courses

• Choose routes randomly without considering safety

• Use proper safety equipment, travel with a partner, practice safe route finding, and attend avalanche safety courses.

• Travel alone without safety equipment

What is an avalanche transceiver and how does it work?

• An avalanche transceiver is a device used in avalanche rescue scenarios to locate individuals buried under snow. It works by transmitting and receiving radio signals on specific frequencies. When a person is buried, their transceiver emits a signal which can be picked up by other transceivers in receive mode, allowing rescuers to pinpoint the buried individual's location.

• An avalanche transceiver is a device used to measure snow depth and temperature.

• An avalanche transceiver works by emitting a loud noise to scare away animals in the area.

• An avalanche transceiver is a type of snow shovel used to dig out buried individuals.

Why is it important to always carry avalanche safety gear?

• To build a snowman

• To have a picnic

• To save lives in case of an avalanche.

• To make snow angels