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The Daily Process

Check Your Gear

A transceiver, probe, and shovel are the essential pieces of equipment that everyone in a backcountry party needs to carry. This equipment must be on your body at all times. You’ll learn more about how to use it in the next section on companion rescue, but first, here’s a quick overview.

Picture of a BCA Tracker 3 avalanche transceiver.
A transceiver is an electronic device that can both send and receive a signal. In send mode, it transmits a constant signal that can be detected by other transceivers. If you or a partner is buried in an avalanche, the rest of the group switches their transceivers to receive—or search—mode so they can look for the victim. A transceiver is worn close to your body, under your outer layers, and must be kept at least 20 cm away from metallic objects and other electronic devices while in transmit mode, and 50 cm away while in search mode.
BCA
A probe is a long, collapsible pole used to pinpoint a victim’s location under the snow following a transceiver search. Carry your probe in your pack, and snap the sections together like tent poles when it’s needed.
A probe is a long, collapsible pole used to pinpoint a victim’s location under the snow following a transceiver search. Carry your probe in your pack, and snap the sections together like tent poles when it’s needed.
BCA
A shovel is necessary to dig an avalanche victim out of the snow. Avalanche shovels have handles that can detach from the blade, making them easy to store in your pack.
A shovel is necessary to dig an avalanche victim out of the snow. Avalanche shovels have handles that can detach from the blade, making them easy to store in your pack. Your shovel should be made of metal, since a plastic one is not strong enough to break through avalanche debris.
BCA

Before you travel, it is important to ensure everyone in your group has all the essential equipment and knows how to use these tools. Avalanche transceiver batteries should be at least 40%, or the manufacturer’s recommended minimum for a normal one-day outing. At the trailhead, ensure everyone’s transceivers are switched on and in transmit mode.

Dig Deeper: Recommended Gear +

Recommended Gear

Here is a short list of some other safety gear we recommend. While not essential, these items could make a big difference in the event of an avalanche or other type of incident.

Avalanche Airbag

An avalanche airbag can reduce the severity of being caught in an avalanche by reducing burial depth, or even preventing burial. It is not a get-out-of-jail-free card; depending on the terrain, you could still be buried with a properly deployed airbag.

BCA avalanche airbag

Communication Device

A communication device allows you to call for help if you get in trouble. Options include cell phones (restricted to areas with cell service), satellite phones, VHF radios, or satellite messenger systems.

Radio

Helmet

A helmet is essential to protecting your head. Getting caught in an avalanche can be extremely violent and many avalanche victims die of trauma as they get swept through trees and rocks. A helmet will help protect your head in this event.

Helmet and goggles

And make sure you have enough food, liquids, and warm clothing for a day in the winter backcountry.