Pre-Course Information
Avalanche Rescue Course
Please use this list to prepare for your Avalanche Rescue Course with AGC. Also see the AGC Avalanche Resources page for more links. Please contact the lead instructor Nick D’Alessio with questions at 907-441-0432 or alaskaguidecollective@gmail.com.
Pre-Course Homework
Complete one adult waiver or one minor waiver (under 18) per person.
Practice with your field gear so you're ready. This is not a backcountry riding course.
Read The Avalanche Factor (chapter 10) by Joe Stock or Avalanche Essentials by Bruce Tremper.
Optional reading, Rescue Handbook
Follow the cnfaic.org Turnagain Pass forecast during the weeks before the course.
Watch Rescue at Cherry Bowl.
Watch the videos below.
Prepare for the Cold!
It will be cold and windy. Here are some tips for staying warm. Also see the gear list.
Bring a BIG backpack to put all this stuff in.
Bring multiple puff layers: two puff coats, puff pants or puff skirt.
Bring big insulated boots like Muck Arctic boots for the parking lot debrief.
Bring a thermos of hot drink for the trail.
Leave a thermos of hot drink in your car for afterward.
Eat a big breakfast and eat all day long.
Keep your toes warm with clean socks, heat packs, possibly electric socks (Lenz are best), or 40 Below Fresh Tracks overboots.
Consider bringing extra layers in the car like a sleeping bag to wrap around your shoulders for the parking lot debrief.
Itinerary
8am meet inside Kaladi Brothers Coffee on Brayton in Anchorage.
Introductions
Rescue briefing
Rescue statistics
Rescue gear
10am - 4:00pm field session at Glen Alps.
Importance of avoiding avalanches
Trailhead checks
How to use your beacon, shovel, and probe
Rescue method as a victim
Rescue method as a responder
Leadership
Searching for victims without beacons
Common medical issues
Evacuation
Rescue scenarios
4pm - 4:30pm parking lot debrief
Course Includes
One day (8 hours) of instruction.
Certified instructors: AMGA-certified Ski Guides and American Avalanche Association Pro 2 certified.
5:1 max student to instructor ratio.
Avalanche rescue field card.
Certificate of completion. AGC is an American Avalanche Association approved provider.
Course Does Not Include
Lodging, food, and drink
Transportation to and from the trailhead
The Avalanche Factor (read chapter 10) by Joe Stock or Avalanche Essentials by Bruce Tremper.
Personal gear and avalanche rescue gear. See gear list.
Rescue and trip insurance (recommended). See Avalanche Reservation, Cancellation and Insurance Policy for details.
Prerequisites
All travel abilities: beginner to advanced, snowshoes, skis or splitboard.
Age 16 or older and able to drive.
Be prepared to remain outside all day in cold and foul weather. We will spend all day in one small area, with short periods of intense activity. Please dress for the conditions to enhance your learning!
