Useful Tips to Survive an Avalanche
Useful Tips to Survive an Avalanche
You may be an adventurer or mountain climber wanting to conquer some of the highest peaks in the world, including Mt. Everest. You may simply be skiing in the Alps or somewhere in Colorado. If so, then youve encountered snow and know what its capable of.
In saying capable of, it can be used for fun or can be a source of danger. Accidents can always happen in the snow, where the white color and cool temperature makes it more dangerous. Avalanches are often a possibility, and should that happen, you have to know some survival tips because you have to act quickly and decisively.
An avalanche is something that you cannot really prepare for, since you dont know when it will strike. But knowing these survival tips when it occurs and when trapped under an avalanche is a matter of life or death. Here are some of the tips:
Close your mouth. Closing your mouth during an avalanche when you are caught in the flow of the snow will prevent the snow from entering your mouth and will not hamper your breathing as much. Hold your breath for as long as possible until the snow sliding stops.
Swim through the snow. Like in a swimming pool, you can swim through the snow even if its more difficult than in water. This constant movement may help you prevent from being trapped underneath a large pile of snow where that is nearly impossible to get out of.
Drop the stuff. Lets say you are skiing when the avalanche occurs, or are carrying something heavy. This added weight will drag you further down into piles of snow, which you dont want to happen. If it does happen, it will be harder to get out since youre under a greater amount of snow to start with, and you also have to lift yourself along with the added weight to get out.
Make air pockets. This is extremely useful when trapped under the snow, since it will allow you to take in some air while you are trying to make your way out. You just simply cup both hands around the nose and mouth and breathe normally. This cup will prevent you from taking in snow as you breathe.
Be innovative. If it seems impossible for you to get out, think clearly. Merely thrusting an arm to the surface can be a factor. A man once urinated his way out of the avalanche, with his urine melting the snow. If he thought of that, you can think of something too.
Finally, if youve survived the ordeal, be sure to report to the proper authorities. Others might be trapped as you were. Youre their hope for survival.
