AVALANCHE SAFETY
backcountry safety
Level 2 Avalanche: Analyzing Snow Stability & Avalanche Hazard (AIARE 2)
Jackson Hole Outdoor Leadership Institute
Session I: Tuesday-Friday, January 3-6
Session II: Tuesday-Friday, Jan 30-Feb 2
8am-5pm
$475 per session
The level 2 course is a 4-day program that provides backcountry leaders the opportunity to advance their avalanche knowledge and decision making skills. This course also includes the introductory and prerequisite components for the professional progression: the level 3 certificate.
The Level 2 builds from the introductory avalanche hazard management model introduced in the level one and adds to it the evaluation of factors critical to stability evaluation.
Student Learning Outcomes:
Advance understanding of avalanche terrain, particularly from the perspective of stability analysis.
Discuss how the snowpack develops and metamorphoses over time; and discuss the factors that contribute to spatial variability.
Learn standard observation guidelines and recording formats for factors that influence or indicate snow stability. SWAG MODULE.
Advance understanding of avalanche release and triggering mechanisms.
Introduce a snow stability analysis and forecasting framework.
Improve companion rescue skills including multiple and deep burials.
Instructional Sessions (40 hours including both class and field) include:
Level 1 Review
Energy balance, the mountain snowpack and metamorphism
Faceting; near surface and near crust faceting
Formation of surface hoar and persistent weak layers
Skier Triggering: theory and observations
International and national snow, weather and avalanche observation and recording guidelines (SWAG).
Weather; interpreting forecasts,
recording and observation techniques
Snow profile techniques and bonding tests
Avalanche observations and recording
techniques
Stability analysis checklist: reviewing
critical factors
Stability ratings
Daily stability forecasts and analysis
Trip Planning and hazard forecasting for avalanche terrain.
The avalanche danger ratings
Terrain analysis using maps/photos
Forecasting stability and variability
Terrain selection and route finding
Group management and hazard
management
Decision making
Human factors
Information gathering
Site selection and relevancy
Spatial variability
Slope tests
Companion Rescue
Level 1 techniques review
Multiple burial
Shovel techniques
Student Prerequisites:
Students must have the ability to travel in avalanche terrain. An AIARE Level 1 Course (strongly recommended) or equivalent training/experience is required. A winter of practical experience after the Level 1 course is recommended before taking the Level 2 course.