AVALANCHES
What is an avalanche?
An avalanche is a huge pile of snow falling down a mountain. It is very dangerous. It can cover a whole village. In North America, 20 to 30 people die in avalanches a year. Avalanches have starting zones, a track, and a run out zone. A snow rescue brings dogs when people are under an avalanche. Avalanches are so powerful that they can cover a whole forest. Avalanches have hard snow, that's why it kills people so fast. There are ice avalanches and rock avalanches. Avalanches can reach a speed of 80 miles (130 kilometers per hour).
|
before
If you are planning to go to a mountain to ski or hike where there can be an avalanche you need to go with somebody. Also, tell family or friends where you are going in case something happens to you. Stick to that area and do not change your plans. You need to bring water and a snack. If you see an avalanche coming towards you, you need to go a safe place to take cover, like a cave or dig a hole in the snow. You need to look at the area and the weather for signs of an avalanche starting. An avalanche can start by skiers, snowboarders, and snowmobiles. So you need to be careful.
|
during
Steps to Survive an Avalanche:
|
AFter
To survive after you are buried in an avalanche, you must:
|