2024-02-16 15:07:18
February 16, 2024
A mountain escape cannot be improvised. Especially if in winter you tend to go off the beaten track. In other words, carefully marked… Take note of these practical advice from the ski slopes management in Les Arcs (Savoie). Both to avoid getting lost and to react appropriately if you are lost…
Snowshoe or ski hiking or off-piste downhill skiing… Preparing for your day’s outing in the mountains begins early in the morning with a glance at the weather forecast. Are snowfalls in the forecast? What visibility? Also consult the avalanche risk estimation bulletin (BERA) produced by Météo France. It has 5 levels of risk: the last being the highest. “ From 4, we don’t go out », says Sandrine Gioani, assistant to the manager of the Arcs slopes who also insists on the importance of seeking advice from professionals, like the ski patrollers-rescuers. And for good reason: they know the area by heart and regularly carry out snowpack surveys to assess its stability and therefore the level of avalanche risk.
Safety in the backpack
Your backpack should (ideally, even if it is not always easy) include certain security elements:
the avalanche victim detector (DVA) – “ provided of course that you are trained in its use”, she specifies; a probe and a shovel if you need to rescue someone, or even an airbag, to trigger if you feel the ground giving way…
Alongside all these elements, slip in something “ feed, hydrate and cover yourself », Recalls Sandrine Gioani who also recommends a survival blanket. “ It doesn’t take up space and it’s very efficient. The weather can change quickly in the mountains. So you always have to have something to fight against the cold ».
Landmarks and clamor
And even more so if you get lost… In this case, even if the network does not reach everywhere, your fully charged mobile phone constitutes a precious ally. Between the compass, GPS coordinates and of course the emergency mode, its advantages are numerous and even vital. You can also bring a map of the area. You will find them at the guides office.
Beyond, ” it is always a matter of having as many references as possible, in order to provide the maximum amount of information to possible rescuers. “, she continues. So scan the landscape and remember that chalet, that farm you passed or that peak with specific shapes that you see in the other valley. Also find a sheltered place, whether from wind or bad weather. Well, of course, An evidence », concludes the professional: “ keep calm ».
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