It is important to use good travel habits regardless of the conditions. That way these strategies become routine behaviours or habits and will protect you from surprise events. Used diligently, they reduce the likelihood of getting caught out and minimise the severity of the situation, whether it be an avalanche or other backcountry hazards.
GOOD COMMUNICATION: Keep open lines of communication and involve all members in decision making. Many groups use two-way radios to stay in contact.
ONE AT A TIME: Wherever possible, expose only one person at a time to avalanche terrain. In big terrain, be strategic about spreading out to reduce the potential consequences of an avalanche.
GROUP UP IN SAFE SPOTS: Group up out of avalanche terrain but also keep in mind your position for a potential rescue. If you descend too far or out of view, you may not see an incident and it could take a long time to climb back up if a rescue is required.
PLAN AN ESCAPE ROUTE: When in avalanche terrain, plan an escape route before you commit to a slope.
USE TERRAIN WISELY: Exploit terrain features to your advantage. Utilise high ground, such as ridges and ribs rather than being sucked into gullies. Maintain situational awareness of the terrain, including what is above and below you.
ACTIVELY LOOK FOR INSTABILITIES: Do stability tests regularly as you travel. Jump on small rolls and slopes with little to no consequence, do hand shear and compression tests, to see if you can get the snow to fail.
