APP AVALANCHE RESCUE

 TESTING CRITERIA

Additions Underlined

(Subtractions in parenthesis)

(revised 4/05)

The avalanche rescue category is intended to test the candidate’s knowledge of an organized avalanche rescue, as well as their ability to perform in a practical rescue scenario of their control partners. A fully certified patroller will have a working knowledge of all aspects of avalanche rescue and be able to organize an avalanche rescue in a ski area or the back country.  A certified result requires a score of 80% on the oral exam, and a transceiver search time of 2 beacons buried 1m deep in an area of 100m x 100m in 5 minutes or less.   An associate result requires 70% on the oral exam and a search time of seven minutes or less.

The following subjects may be covered: 

Transceiver:

            Manufacturer’s technical data

            Type of signal and how it affects search pattern

            Practical search range

            Orientation and its importance

            Null zones

            Be able to describe a complete search, from no signal to pinpoint.

            Be able to describe a technique for multiple burial recovery.

            Be able to describe the differences and similarities of digital and analog transceivers.

Search and rescue:

            (Safe travel on a control route) (route selection is covered in the Avalanche test)

            General rescue principles and logistics

            Witness interview

            Your areas rescue plan

            Rescue equipment

            Various roles fulfilled during rescue

The candidate must come to the transceiver search with their transceiver, shovel, and probe.

REFERENCES:      

The Avalanche Handbook  McClung and Schaerer

                        Manufacturer’s instruction manuals

                        Candidate’s home area rescue plan