Avalanches, How Safe Is The Alps?

With four people dying of an avalanche in Tignes this week, it raises the question of just how safe it is to ski in the Alps.

The Alps have recently seen some heavy snowfall after a fairly poor snow season, this has raised the avalanche risk in some resorts. Tignes is currently on a level 3 avalanche rating which means there is a ‘considerable’ risk. This rating means that the snow is moderate to poorly bonded on many of the steep slopes.

Much of the Savoie region is also on level 3, other parts are on a level 2. Similar risk levels are also reported in parts of Switzerland. So whilst the danger is there we guess that skiing has always been a dangerous sport, so should always be approached with respect and care.

How To Survive Danger In The Snow

There are a number of things to always remember when you are skiing.

Understand what the avalanche ratings mean. Level 1 is low, level 5 is extremely high.
Before you go out skiing always check what the avalanche danger is in your resort.
Make sure you have the right equipment with you. Essential avalanche equipment includes an avalanche transceiver, probe and shovel. But as important you must know how to use it.
Know where you are skiing and where you are on and off piste.
Majority of avalanches occur on slopes of 30 degrees or more, so know how to identify slopes that fit this bill.

Surviving an avalanche

Hopefully this will never happen but if it does the following could just save your life.

Try to get to the side of the path as quickly as you can.
People describe being in an avalanche as what it must feel like to be in a washing machine. Aim to keep on the surface with your head above the snow.
Activate your ABS backpack, this should keep you on the surface.
Remember with a radio transceiver if you are buried your chance of survival is 34%, if you are not fully buried your chance of survival are over 90%.

Avalanches and Insurance Companies

If your resort has had an avalanche you may not feel like going there but chances are your insurance company will not reimburse you. The only exception to this is if the Foreign Office advises against travel, your case is then stronger.