*you do not need your avalanche gear for the zoom sessions
Evening 1:
Participants meet online at 6:00pm (zoom link will be sent out to students 1-2 weeks before course starts). Session ends around 9:00pm. Curriculum topics which will be covered this day include:
- Introductions, course goals, agenda.
- Understanding avalanches: formation and characteristics
- Avalanche terrain recognition
- Introduction to the ATES (Avalanche Terrain Exposure Scale)
- Changes in the mountain snowpack, snow metamorphism
Evening 2:
Participants meet online 6:00pm. Session ends around 9:00pm.Curriculum topics which will be covered this day include:
- Assessing and reducing risk
- Accessing public avalanche bulletins
- Using the AVALUATOR
- Safe travel choices and proper route planning
- Companion rescue techniques
- Discuss program for Day 2 in the field
Day 2
Meet at the Black Prince parking lot in Kananaskis at 9:00am. Today you will be making real-life observations and gaining hands-on experience. Curriculum topics which will be covered on this day include:
- Re-group at the parking area, sign waivers
- Field observations
- Companion rescue techniques and practice
- Managing risk in avalanche terrain
- Route selection, track setting and terrain related hazard
- Snow profiles and stability tests
- Companion rescue scenario
- 4:30pm Course debrief, presentation of certificates
Our field day will see a maximum participant-to-guide ratio of 6:1 to make for the best possible learning experience!