Snow avalanches pose a very serious threat to the unwary back country traveler.
The first step in avalanche safety is to recognize that this potential threat exists, while at the same time realizing that with knowledge and experience one can minimize the danger. Most avalanches that injure or kill people are caused by the victims themselves or by other members of their party. Most of these accidents can be avoided. Avalanches are complicated natural events that are the product of specific terrain, weather, and snowpack conditions. They can not be predicted with certainty, but we can identify levels and trends in snow stability.