Live the Dream: You're Having a Laugh

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Soon to be buried avalanche myths

• Avalanches are NOT caused by loud noises such as a shout or scream. Piste patrollers trigger avalanches with bomb explosions. A common trigger is a separate, large avalanche on a nearby slope. This was the case in Galtur, Austria when 31 people were buried alive in February 1999 after a massive slide set off another one on the same face.

• Avalanches do NOT just happen and should never be referred to as unexpected. Avalanches happen for specific reasons with the same contributing factors held responsible - eg: high levels of wind blown snow in short periods > changing temperatures > ridden by freeriders = POTENTIAL DISASTER.

• Tracks in the snow do NOT mean a slope is safe! The previous skier or boarder may have been very lucky, or snow conditions may have changed since the tracks were made. There is also the possibility of the tracks leading you to other dangers, such as cliffs.

• Boarders are NOT more likely to cause avalanches than skiers. Reckless riding from both sets can trigger slides, but when freeriding on weak layers skiers add more stress to the snow pack than boarders.

• In the event of an avalanche, you are very unlikely to be able to move out of its path or out run it. An average avalanche travels at speeds of around 80 mph and making a run for it is usually impossible. Also, moving out of its path as you marvel at its awesome stature whilst reaching for your camera is not a viable option.

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