Advanced Avalanche Rescue

A one-day companion rescue course for backcountry travellers who can already run a transceiver search and want to handle what actually happens in a real burial: more than one signal, a victim under two metres of debris, and four people standing around waiting to be told what to do. The day runs on timed, realistic scenarios rather than drills, so you work under pressure and see where your system breaks. You'll leave able to lead a rescue, not just take part in one. Outline: Multiple burial searching, deep burial probing, team shovelling and rescue leadership, built around full timed scenarios, with first aid, rescue service communication and terrain decision making alongside. Full syllabus below. Who it's for: You must have completed a basic avalanche rescue course or be able to locate a single buried transceiver and probe it in under five minutes without coaching. This is not the place to learn how your transceiver works. We move through open backcountry terrain during the day, so you need to ski, ride or snowshoe competently off piste and be fit for around 4 to 5h moving on snow with heavy digging on top of that. Gear: Transceiver, probe and shovel are provided. Bring your own set if you have one, since the scenarios are only useful if you are working on the device you actually carry. A three antenna transceiver with a marking function is strongly preferred for the multiple burial work. Bad weather: The course runs in most conditions, and poor visibility is realistic training. In high wind, heavy rain or a very high avalanche bulletin we move the scenarios to sheltered, low angle terrain, or run the theory and leadership sessions indoors and the practical on a rescheduled day. Insurance: You must have personal accident and mountain rescue cover valid in Italy. Standard travel insurance usually does not cover off piste or backcountry use, so check the wording before you book.

• Skis with touring bindings and skins

• a splitboard

• rucksack 25 to 35 L

• waterproof jacket and trousers

• warm midlayer

• insulated jacket for standing around between scenarios

• two pairs of gloves with one thin pair for handling the transceiver

• sunglasses and goggles

• sun cream

• packed lunch and a hot drink

• charged phone

• personal first aid kit

• plus your own transceiver, probe and shovel if you have them

Introduction, objectives and safety briefing Review of single burial search techniques Multiple burial search: marking function and search strategies Micro-strip and close-proximity search techniques Deep burials: advanced probing techniques Strategic shoveling in teams (V-shaped conveyor belt technique) Rescue leadership: role assignment and group management Basic first aid for avalanche victims and hypothermia protection Communication with rescue services and helicopter approach Terrain assessment and decision-making to avoid avalanche danger Full practical scenarios with multiple burials Final debrief, feedback and best practices

• Guides on Oak are verified by Oak, but users should independently confirm a guide’s qualifications.

• Participants are responsible for ensuring their skill level and fitness are suitable for the activity.

• Individuals should only attempt techniques or terrain they feel personally confident with.

• All instructions and safety guidance from the guide should be followed at all times.

• Users must ensure their own equipment is appropriate and in safe working condition.

• Mountain activities carry inherent risks, and participation is at the user’s own discretion.

• Adequate insurance covering mountain travel and rescue is essential.

• Relevant medical information should be shared with the guide.

• Plans may change due to weather or safety considerations, and users should be prepared for this.