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Transceiver
This piece of kit could save your life. It is not going to prevent an avalanche but if you get caught in one it’s your best hope of being found. Every member of the group should wear a transceiver from the moment you leave the hut until you are safely back in another. The are several makes of transceiver, all with varying reviews (please see kit reviews) but it is worth noting that some of the older makes are not compatible with newer versions and the experts suggest should be retired. Make sure you check every member of the group individually before setting out each day by turning your transceiver to receive and making sure you can pick them up, and then get someone to check you. If you are on a multi day tour, take spare batteries, transceivers tend to use very little battery power and will often last several tours but better to be sure. Transceivers should also be worn under a layer of clothing so they do not get ripped off if you are caught in an avalanche. Make sure it is fitted properly or somewhere secure on your body.
Probe
A probe is essential if a member of your party has been buried in an avalanche. There
may be no visible trace on the surface and you will not have long to find them before
it is too late. Probes are made of carbon fibre so are very light to carry and extendable
to usually about 2 meters. Your transceiver might narrow down your search to within
1-
Shovel
Once you have located a person using your transceiver and probe the only way to get to that person is to dig. Being properly equipped with a shovel will safe you time and provide you with the only really chance of saving that person. Weight versus effectiveness needs to be taken into consideration. A metal bladed shovel is the best because it will be more effective in hard snow and an extendable handle will give you more leverage but the bigger the shovel the more it weighs.
