| General |
Off-piste skiing is a fast-growing craze. The new skis on offer with
generous width have introduced thousands of new skiers to the big white
fluffy stuff.
But with the added dangers involved it's vital to carry
the right safety equipment. It may just save your life.
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| Transceivers |
Avalanche Transceivers are the most important piece of your kit;
are the first thing you should buy.
Always wear your transceiver close to your body, never in a pocket or rucksack. The batteries should
be checked regularly and you should practise using them as often as you
can.
 [Photo: Backcountry Access]
There are a number of different types of transceivers on the market.
The latest models have either dual antennae, digital displays or sometimes
both.
We recommend that you find a shop that can give you good advice
and demonstrate how to work it. But frequent practice is the key.
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| Rucksack, probe and shovel |
A transceiver will only save your life
if your fellow riders can pinpoint your position and dig you out. The
whole party should each carry a rucksack, shovel and probe as well as
a transceiver.
 [Photo: Backcountry Access]
It's also advisable to carry a first aid kit, a survival
blanket and some kind of hydration system or water bottle. Energy bars
also come in handy.
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| Informing rescue services |
Mobile phones It depends how far you are off the beaten track
and if you can get a signal. But a mobile phone will ensure you can inform
rescue services quickly of any accident or injury. Just make sure you
programme the relevant number into your phone before you head off.
Two-way radios These can be used as an alternative to mobile
phones. You don't need a signal, but you do need to be within range of
someone else with a radio.
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| Helmets and body protection |
If you like to ski hard and fast down
narrow couloirs, or through the trees, you may want to consider wearing
a helmet and/or some body protection.
It's fast becoming all the rage and could prevent a serious injury.
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