Safety First
First make sure that your
wintersports travel insurance policy covers you off-piste, and always adhere to the following off-piste safety rules:
• Always let someone know where you are going and what time you plan to return.
• Unless you know the area like the back of your hand, always employ a qualified mountain guide.
• Never leave the patrolled ski area on your own; it is safer to ride in groups of three or more persons.
• Never blindly follow someone else's tracks, they may lead in the wrong direction or even off a cliff!
• Always carry the essential off-piste kit: avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe, map and compass.
When exploring off-piste in glacial areas you should also carry a climbing rope and harness, ice screws, carabiners and rope ascenders/foot slings. However, these items are only effective if you know how to use them properly.
Many resorts run avalanche awareness and safety equipment training courses. The golden rule is
Get Wise, or Get Lost!
Risk levels 1 to 2
Low to moderate probability of avalanche.
Risk levels 3 to 4
Moderate to high probability of avalanche.
Risk level 5
Absolute risk of large avalanche.
