Item: SHOULD AVALANCHE AIRBAGS BE MANDITORY?
-
-
Title: SHOULD AVALANCHE AIRBAGS BE MANDITORY?
Proceedings: International Snow Science Workshop 2024, Tromsø, Norway
Authors:
- Christopher Van Tilburg MD [ Hood River Crag Rats, Hood River Oregon USA ]
Date: 2024-09-23
Abstract: Avalanche airbag backpacks have been shown to be effective at reducing avalanche fatalities. However, they are yet to be considered mandatory safety equipment, which has long consisted of a transceiver, a shovel, and a probe. Evidence shows airbags reduce mortality by decreasing likelihood of burial. In addition, airbags probably reduce likelihood of trauma by providing a cushion and possibly delay asphyxia once buried by creating an air pocket. The data suggests airbags reduce mortality at a rate similar to transceivers. Despite this, airbags are not considered standard safety equipment. Multiple barriers exist for universal adoption, including cost, size, weight, and lack of community support and recommendations from professional societies and associations.
Object ID: ISSW2024_O11.3.pdf
Language of Article: English
Presenter(s): Christopher Van Tilburg
Keywords: avalanche, airbag, burial
Page Number(s): 1446 - 1449
-