Item: Targeting Teens: A One Hour Avalanche Awareness Program
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Title: Targeting Teens: A One Hour Avalanche Awareness Program
Proceedings: 2002 International Snow Science Workshop, Penticton, British Columbia
Authors:
- Peter Spear [ Canadian Ski Patrol System, Calgary, Alberta ]
- Gordon Ritchie [ Canadian Ski Patrol System, Calgary, Alberta ]
- Kevin Biggs [ Canadian Ski Patrol System, Calgary, Alberta ]
- Debbie Ritchie [ Canadian Ski Patrol System, Calgary, Alberta ]
Date: 2002
Abstract: The Canadian winter of 1997-98 exacted a toll of21 backcountry avalanche related deaths. Six teenagers, comprised of three skiers, one snowboarder and two snowmobilers, were killed. This was an alanning number of youth killed in avalanches in Canada. One-hour talks, using the lesson plan format, were developed to increase knowledge and awareness in youth of the risks associated with skiing, snowboarding or snowmobiling in uncontrolled avalanche terrain. Grade 10 students in physical education classes in city and rural high schools are the target group. Students are introduced to three key SMARTRISK concepts; "Get trained", "Wear the gear", and "Look first". Ski area signage is shown, and avalanche rescue equipment is demonstrated. The Canadian Ski Patrol System (CSPS) "Avalanche: Be Aware" pamphlet is given to each participant for reference. Students are advised to take a Recreational Avalanche Course (RAe) from qualified provider. Since 1997, it is estimated that over 10,000 high school students have attended one-hour avalanche awareness talks. There has been an increase in the number of teenagers attending RACs in Canada. Delivery of the program has expanded within Canada and to the United States. Teenagers who have attended the program report modifying their behaviour in relation to travel in avalanche terrain, but currently this has not been quantified. A one-hour avalanche awareness talk targeted for teenagers and suitable for delivery in high schools is a first step in increasing avalanche risk awareness in youth.
Object ID: issw-2002-273-276.pdf
Language of Article: English
Presenter(s): Unknown
Keywords: education, youth, avalanche
Page Number(s): 273-276
Subjects: avalanche awareness program fatalities youth
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