Ski and snowshoe tours

Ski touring is an endurance sport. The valuable stress stimuli for heart, circulation and muscles require health and an honest self-assessment. Avoid time pressure and choose the pace so that no one in your group gets out of breath. Make sure you have energy reserves for the descent.

Maps, guide literature, the Internet and experts provide information about the route, length, altitude difference and current conditions. Pay particular attention to the weather forecast, as cold, wind and poor visibility greatly increase the risk of accidents. Also plan alternative routes. Find out about national mountain rescue emergency numbers (European emergency 112).

Adapt your equipment to the winter conditions and the specific tour destination. Standard emergency equipment includes an avalanche transceiver, probe and shovel, as well as a first aid kit, bivy sack and cell phone. An airbag system increases the chances of survival. Check your equipment before starting and carry a repair kit.

Before the tour, inform yourself in detail about the avalanche danger: How? Where? What? This is where the avalanche report comes in handy. Pay particular attention to information about the danger level (1-5), the danger points (Where is it dangerous today?) and the danger patterns (What is the main danger today?).

When it comes to recognizing avalanche danger, humans have narrow limits. Base your decisions on strategic methods of risk assessment (reduction methods) and learn to recognize danger signs in the terrain. Avoid danger spots and turn back in case of doubt.