How to Survive an Avalanche
Do you know how to avoid being caught up in an avalanche? Army Cadet Ambassador and polar explorer Craig Mathieson reveals the dos and don’ts.
Avalanche 101
There are many types of avalanche,’ says Craig, ‘from the loose-snow avalanche (where new snow tumbles down the mountain at 40mph) to those where airborne powder comes piling down at 175 mph. The latter is the kind you see in the Alps.’ Read more about the different types of avalanche.
‘We do get avalanches in the UK, especially in the highlands of Scotland, the Welsh hills and the Lake District. These are usually slab avalanches where big slabs of snow break away and fall. ‘In Scotland, we sometimes get wet avalanches in spring when the temperatures increase and the bonds between the snow and ground melt. Getting caught in that would be like being encased in concrete and the chances of survival slim.
‘Despite what you might imagine, avalanches don’t only happen on big mountains: a slope and snow is all that’s required.’
What to do in an Avalanche
If there’s a risk of an avalanche, don’t go. Being caught in an avalanche is so dangerous you should always err on the side of caution. Preparation is everything in winter, so never just wake up and decide to head for the hills. Check the forecast. Even if the weather is stable and you decide to go, still take great care. That means never going out by yourself, and making sure those you go with have the same level of competence as you and know what to do in an emergency.
Always do your own research ‘If you do get caught in an avalanche, shout or scream as loud as you can to alert others, while ditching your gear so you’re not impaled on it. As you get caught up in the avalanche try to get to the side of it using a swimming motion or rolling, although that is incredibly difficult if you’re being swept along at 40mph. Realistically, you have no control until the avalanche slows down.
Close your mouth so you don’t choke on snow and, as you come to a stop, make space around your head to help you breathe. Try to relax and conserve energy and oxygen. You probably won’t know if you are upside down – it could be pitch black. You typically have 15 minutes and up to an hour to be found, but if you’re the one searching never give up. People have managed to survive for 24 hours in Scotland.
Have the Right Kit
In winter you should take crampons, a shovel, avalanche probes, an ice axe and a transceiver so people can find you. Check the battery each time.
Track Your Route
It’s especially important in winter to write details of the route you’ll be taking and leave these with a responsible person. Agree a time by which you’ll make contact when you’re back and check they know to call 999 and ask for Mountain Rescue if you’re late.
Everyone in your party should have a map and compass and know how to use them.
Regularly Check the Weather
When you get to the hill, check the local weather forecast for any weather changes – and have a plan B if you’re not happy with the conditions.
‘Stay away from avalanche-prone areas – find a different route so you don’t take any risks. If you see footprints in the snow that look like they’ve been made half an hour ahead, don’t assume that’s a safe route – they could have been lucky.
What to do if you Witness an Avalanche
If you’re a witness (not the one caught in the avalanche), track the person closely to identify the last place you see them before they disappear, taking a bearing against a tree or rock. Then get as many people to help search as quickly as possible.’
Polar explorer Craig has many years of military and mountaineering experience and has been involved in numerous expeditions to the Antarctic and Arctic. He runs The Polar Academy, a project that takes young people in Scotland on challenging and confidence-building expeditions to the Arctic.
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