Don't get caught in a Colorado Avalanche!

On average there are 2300 avalanches reported to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center every year.  It is expected that 10 times that number actually occur in the state of Colorado but go unreported.  These avalanches include those naturally occurring as well as accidentally or intentionally triggered slides.

We can expect 6 people on average to die every year due to avalanches but 68 people are caught in them.  In the 2006-2007 season five people were killed and in this 2007-2008 season there have been at least 8 avalanches reported in Colorado with 4 deaths.

According to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center the most dangerous type of avalanches are slab avalanches. Slab avalanches can form when stronger snow overlies weaker snow. The difference in strength can be very subtle or quite dramatic. Often, human triggered slab avalanches are 1-2 feet deep, have an area about half the size of a football field, and can reach speed over 20 mph within seconds.

The other problematic avalanche type in Colorado is a loose snow avalanche. Loose snow avalanches are a greater issue in spring, when the snow-pack surface is rapidly warming and losing strength. Loose snow avalanches happen when the surface snow has little strength. They usually start from a point, often under trees or cliffs. A chunk of snow starts tumbling, and knocks more snow loose. The loose avalanches fan out as they descend. Loose avalanches can be big enough to tumble a rider or climber around, and can have serious consequences if they carry you into trees, confined gullies, or over cliffs.

How do we protect ourselves?  The obvious answer is abstinence.  Don't go into the back country.  While some people may stay away, that is not the answer for most.  Education, awareness and preparedness is the answer and even then, you may not walk away from an avalanche.  Your chances will be better if you take an avalanche awareness class and carry the necessary gear when you head into the back country.  Check out the Forest Service National Avalanche Centerfor more information and an online class.  A-Basin is offering a 3 day Avalanche school too.  You can buy Avalungs and beacons as well as other essential gear online easily.  There's no excuse for being in the back country unprepared.  It could mean your life!