Item: The Canadian Approach to Professional Avalanche Training
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Title: The Canadian Approach to Professional Avalanche Training
Proceedings: International Snow Science Workshop Grenoble – Chamonix Mont-Blanc - October 07-11, 2013
Authors:
- Emily L. Grady [ Industry Training Program Manager - Canadian Avalanche Association, Revelstoke, BC, CANADA ]
Date: 2013-10-07
Abstract: Canada is in a unique position with: low-density populations scattered over large mountainous areas of differing snow conditions; limited access to government-organized observation and warning networks; the highest concentration of mechanized guiding operations; and highway and transportation corridors travelling through extensive wilderness areas. As a result of these factors, a person in charge of snow safety in Canada must be self-reliant in making observations and evaluating the local snow stability and avalanche hazard. The Canadian Avalanche Association (CAA) delivers a comprehensive array of training for avalanche professionals through its Industry Training Program. This program prepares workers to be responsible for avalanche safety in industries such as ski areas, highway operations, railways, mines, and guiding. Successful graduates from Canadian avalanche courses are expected to not only move safely in the backcountry but also to make decisions independently. In order to assist industries and operational staff with this challenge, the CAA has developed a training program with exceptionally high standards. Over the past decade, the CAA has received an increasing number of international inquiries regarding its professional avalanche courses. This paper explains the unique history that has shaped the Industry Training Program, and shares the evolution of its objectives and methodology.
Object ID: ISSW13_paper_P5-31.pdf
Language of Article: English
Presenter(s): Unknown
Keywords: professional avalanche training, canada, avalanche industry, avalanche education
Page Number(s): 573-575
Subjects: avalanche education avalanche training avalanche safety
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