What emergency equipment do I need for the road?
Emergency equipment includes an avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe. These three items of equipment are no freestyle, they belong in any case in the touring backpack. In the event of an avalanche, they greatly increase the chances of recovering buried victims alive. By the way: Even those who are on the move with snowshoes should not do without this equipment!
Which avalanche transceiver is right for me?
There are currently five manufacturers on the market that offer about 15 different avalanche beacons. There are so-called basic devices and devices with additional functions. The decisive factor in the selection is how well you get along with the operation. There are differences here. Not everyone gets along with every device equally well. You should definitely try it out at a specialist store and get advice from experts.
But the avalanche transceiver alone is not enough?
Exactly. Because I can't dig out the buried person with the device. Anyone who has ever tried to dig a hole in the snow with his bare hands knows that it is very difficult, sometimes impossible. Therefore, you definitely need a shovel. Here, too, it makes sense to look at the models in specialized stores. In addition, you need a probe. With this, the buried person can be localized exactly in the first place. It is important to practice using an avalanche transceiver, probe and shovel several times a year so that they can be used correctly in an emergency.
Airbag systems have also been available for some years. These are backpacks with one or two integrated balloons that are inflated in a flash in the event of an avalanche. They can play a significant role in preventing you from being completely buried. They are recommended by the Alpine clubs. Important: they do not replace the avalanche transceiver, shovel or probe. These things still need to go with you.
Do you need more emergency equipment?
In addition to the classic emergency equipment avalanche transceiver, probe and shovel, there are other things that must be taken in any case. These are a cell phone, a bivy sack, a rescue blanket and a first aid kit.
What other equipment should I take with me?
In addition to the equipment for the "emergency" there are a number of important things that should definitely find space in the backpack. Here applies: Even if not everything is needed on every tour, these items can become extremely important in an emergency. Thus, they are not optional!
- Map / GPS device to keep your bearings (always have a plan B with you in case your phone fails).
- A ski helmet for downhill is now considered a fixed part of the equipment and protects in case of falls
- Crampons: Are attached to the binding at the ski - should the snow be very icy and you slip away with the skin alone, the sharp prongs claw into the ice. Crampons are indispensable in icy conditions - but beware, you often need them when you least suspect it!
- Pocket knife, cable ties and a tear-proof adhesive tape: with these you can make makeshift repairs on the road
What do I have to pay attention to when it comes to clothing?
In addition to the normal layers such as base and midlayer, possibly long underpants, ski socks and pants, a lightweight softshell makes sense. In bad weather, at higher altitudes and on tours lasting several days, a hardshell is a must. And for breaks or descents in the cold, an insulating jacket with down or synthetic fiber filling should be included.
Whether you take a shirt as a change of clothes, everyone must know for themselves. For multi-day and long tours and people who sweat a lot, it has absolutely its justification.
How is that for ski touring on the slopes?
As long as you are on the slope, i.e. not in the so-called "free ski area", you do not need an avalanche transceiver, probe and shovel. However, a so-called restraint system for the skis is mandatory. These can be safety straps or ski stoppers. It is necessary to prevent a loose ski from sliding down the slope and injuring other people.
In conclusion, it can be said: Especially at the start of the season, the touring backpack should be checked and the missing equipment packed. At this time, the batteries should also be checked for functionality and the other utensils. Thus, during the season you have always prepared the backpack and the packing is done in a few minutes.