WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF

Avalanche science and prevention

Most avalanche accidents happen off the secured piste. Except in guided groups, everyone is responsible for their own safety in this "open terrain". With basic knowledge, simple concepts and tools, the risk of avalanches can be minimised to an acceptable level.

The SLF recommends that freeriders and ski tourers inform themselves about the current avalanche danger, equip themselves correctly (avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe), make avalanche-relevant observations in the terrain and behave appropriately according to the conditions. However, there is no such thing as absolute safety in avalanche terrain. If an avalanche accident occurs despite preventive measures, it is important not to lose any time. In the first 15 minutes after an avalanche burial, there is the best chance of rescuing buried victims alive. However, companion rescue can only be successful if all group members have practised and mastered the initial rescue measures. We recommend that people who have no experience in assessing avalanche danger do not leave the secured descents or routes, or join a professionally guided group. If you want to acquire the necessary avalanche knowledge, it is best to attend an avalanche course and prepare yourself with a few basics.

The comprehensive White Risk platform (whiterisk.ch and app) offers many opportunities to acquire avalanche knowledge, obtain up-to-date snow and avalanche information and plan tours and freeride descents.

 

Publications

Caution avalanches!

The leaflet "Beware of avalanches!" is aimed at the self-employed ski tourer. The handy format, the concentrated information and the attractive design are intended on the one hand to encourage people to brush up on what they have learned - at home or on the move. On the other hand, it serves as a training aid.

2023
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Available languages: German, English, French, Italian

Lawinen. Verstehen, beurteilen und risikobasiert entscheiden

Der anschauliche Praxisratgeber bietet fundiertes Wissen rundum Lawinen für alle Wintersportler, z.B. Skitourengeher, Freerider und Schneeschuhwanderer. Er baut auf einem einfachen Beurteilungskonzept auf und liefert die nötigen Bausteine um Lawinen zu verstehen und risikobasiert zu entscheiden. Leicht verständlich werden Grundlagen und Expertenwissen veranschaulicht sowie auch der Umgang mit menschlichen Faktoren erläutert. Auch das richtige Vorgehen im Notfall wird erklärt. Fundiert, praxisbezogen, unverzichtbar. Erhältlich im Buchhandel.

2023
Available languages: German, French

Projects

Greenland-Switzerland Avalanche Collaboration (Konrad Steffen Grant)

The present project aims to support GreenAVS by establishing a collaboration between SLF and current avalanche management stakeholders in Greenland.

Glide-snow avalanches - the last frontier in avalanche forecasting

Glide-snow avalanches are considered unpredictable. It is presently unclear, where the water at the snow-soil interface comes from. By linking the two porous media, snow and soil, and assessing the mass and heat exchange across their interface, we will advance the predictability of glide avalanches.

Development of a seismo-acoustic avalanche detection system

How can avalanche activity be determined in bad visibility and in remote regions? In cooperation with Geopraevent and Altecno, we are developing a combined system of seismic and infrasound sensors for the detection and localization of avalanches.

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Services and products

Avalanche bulletin

In its avalanche bulletins, the SLF provides information about the current avalanche situation. Its content is designed as an informed warning.

ProTools

ProToolsis a map-based information system for avalanche professionals. The system will be discontinued at the end of September 2024.

SOCIAL – a group safeguarding aid

Surveys among backcountry tourers and freeriders bring to light a wide array of behaviour patterns. Many of these can help to specifically address and reduce avalanche hazards.

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