subject: Safety Tips For Outdoor Winter Sports [print this page] Participating in outdoor winter sports necessitates increased caution for your safety and that of others in your group. Being aware of avalanche safety is especially important for those on skis or snowmobiles who like to travel off the beaten path.
There are three different things that must all come together in order for an avalanche to occur. First off, the mountain slope must be greater than a 30 degree angle. Slopes of less than that aren't steep enough for an avalanche to occur.
The next consideration is the snow pack. The snow pack has many layers of snow; some layers are stronger and others are considered weak or unstable. If a strong layer of snow rests on top of a weak layer, the snowpack will be unstable and an avalanche could occur.
The third condition that must be met is that there must be something that triggers the avalanche. Extra stress on the weak layer of snow will cause it to collapse, causing an avalanche. Any extra weight, such as that of a person, a snowmobile, or even just adding more snow weight can trigger an avalanche.
You can avoid avalanche accidents by following three simple practices. First off, when in avalanche areas, only expose one person in the group to the danger at one time. Send one person at a time across the area while the others watch from a safe distance.
The next thing is to watch for signs of unstable snow. Recent avalanches indicate that there is unstable snow in the area. Watch for snow stability on similar slopes in the area.
The third practice is to make sure everyone in the group carries avalanche rescue gear. Carry this gear in a small backpack on your person, not on your sled or snowmobile. Make sure everyone knows how to use it.
These safety tips are important for all, especially those with poor snowmobile shocks. Good snowmobile shocks are important, not only for a comfortable ride, but for safety as well. Snowmobile shocks in good working order will increase your satisfaction on your next winter outing.
