Snow Safety

At minimum, every member of your team should carry a beacon, probe, and shovel — and know how to use them. For steeper or higher-risk routes, add a snow saw and consider a lightweight pack with an avalanche airbag system.

Regular practice is critical. Set up mock rescues with your partners to stay sharp on beacon searches, probing patterns, and organized shoveling. Efficiency and communication matter more than speed alone.

Not at all. Mountaineers often travel through avalanche terrain during climbs and descents. Understanding snowpack stability, recognizing wind loading, and managing timing can be just as important for climbers as for skiers.