Avalanches are a formidable force of nature, capable of burying skiers, snowboarders, and mountaineers in seconds. But avalanches aren’t the only natural disaster we need to prepare for. Earthquakes, floods, wildfires, and hurricanes can strike with devastating consequences. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and skills to survive an avalanche and prepare for other natural disasters.
Understanding Avalanches: Causes, Types, and Terrain
Avalanches occur when a mass of snow, ice, and debris slides down a slope. Several factors contribute to avalanche formation:
- Snowpack Instability: Weak layers within the snowpack can collapse under the weight of new snow or stress, triggering an avalanche.
- Triggers: Natural triggers like heavy snowfall, rain, or rapid temperature changes can destabilize the snowpack. Human activity, such as skiing or snowmobiling, can also trigger avalanches.
- Terrain: Steep slopes, convex slopes, and terrain traps (e.g., gullies, cliffs) increase the likelihood of avalanches.
Avalanches come in different forms:
- Slab Avalanches: A cohesive slab of snow breaks away from the underlying snowpack. These are the most dangerous type of avalanche.
- Loose Snow Avalanches: A mass of loose, unconsolidated snow slides down a slope.
- Wet Snow Avalanches: Snow saturated with water slides down a slope, often occurring during spring thaws.
How to Survive an Avalanche: Essential Tips and Gear
Before the Avalanche:
- Check Conditions: Consult avalanche forecasts, weather reports, and local advisories before venturing into avalanche terrain.
- Gear Up: Carry essential avalanche safety gear, including an avalanche transceiver, probe, shovel, and airbag.
- Travel with Partners: Never go alone in avalanche terrain. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time.
- Get Educated: Take an avalanche safety course to learn about rescue techniques, terrain assessment, and decision-making in the backcountry.
During the Avalanche:
- Escape: If possible, try to ski or snowboard out of the avalanche’s path. Move to the side or uphill.
- Swim: If caught in the avalanche, “swim” or use swimming motions to stay on the surface of the snow.
- Air Pocket: If buried, create an air pocket in front of your face by cupping your hands.
- Conserve Energy: Remain calm and breathe slowly to conserve oxygen.
After the Avalanche:
- Signal for Help: If buried, try to clear an air pocket and signal for help with your avalanche transceiver or whistle.
- Search and Rescue: If you are unburied, use your transceiver to search for buried companions. Follow proper probing and shoveling techniques.
Preparing for Other Natural Disasters
Earthquakes:
- Drop, Cover, Hold On: During an earthquake, drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until the shaking stops.
- Earthquake Kit: Prepare a kit with water, food, first aid supplies, a flashlight, and other essentials.
- Secure Furniture: Secure heavy furniture and objects to prevent them from falling during an earthquake.
Floods:
- Evacuate: If flooding is imminent, move to higher ground immediately.
- Avoid Driving: Do not drive through flooded areas.
- Flood Kit: Have a flood kit ready with essential supplies and important documents.
Wildfires:
- Defensible Space: Create defensible space around your home by clearing brush and debris.
- Evacuation Plan: Have a wildfire evacuation plan and follow evacuation orders promptly.
General Preparedness Tips:
- Emergency Plan: Create a family emergency plan and discuss it with all household members.
- Emergency Kit: Build an emergency kit with supplies for at least 72 hours.
- Stay Informed: Stay informed about weather forecasts, warnings, and potential hazards in your area.
By following these tips and being prepared, you can increase your chances of survival in the face of avalanches and other natural disasters. Remember, knowledge is your best defense against the unpredictable forces of nature.
