ASI - AIARE Avalanche Level 1

Skiing Ability Level

Ski Technical Difficulty:

Mountain Skill Rating:

Physical Condition:

Includes:
Student Handbook and the use of avalanche transceiver, probe and shovel.

Does not include:
New AIARE Fieldbook and personal items on the Equipment List.

Operating under Special Use Permit, Tahoe National Forest.

AIARE Avalanche Level 1
Decision Making in Avalanche Terrain 3 Day

Our traditional Level 1 is best suited for those who want to be mobile in the backcountry. This course is most effectively taught in 3 full consecutive days, meeting the AIARE 24hr. requirement. It also meets guidelines established by the American Avalanche Association.

Students must be able to travel in avalanche terrain. This can be done using skis, splitboard or snowshoes. Please familiarize yourself with the following resources as they will help prepare you for the topics discussed in the course.

An AIARE Level 1 Certificate will be awarded upon completion.

Cost: $395

Dates:

Dec 5-7, 2009 (Sat-Mon) Full
Dec 11-13, 2009 (Fri-Sun) Full
Jan 16-18, 2010 (Sat-Mon - MLK Weekend) Full
Jan 22-24, 2010 (Fri-Sun) Full
Feb 13-15, 2010 (Sat-Mon - President's Weekend) Full
Feb 27 - Mar 1, 2010 (Sat-Mon) Full
Mar 13-15, 2010 (Sat-Mon) Full

Next Season:
Dec 4-6, 2010 (Sat-Mon)
Dec 11-13, 2010 (Sat-Mon)

On an AIARE Avalanche Level 1 you will learn about:

Introduction to the Avalanche Phenomena

Types and characteristics of avalanches
Avalanche motion
Size classification
The mountain snowpack: an introduction to metamorphism and layering

Observations and Information Gathering

Field observation techniques
Bonding tests: rutschblock, compression test
Avalanche danger factors “Red Flags”
Observation checklist
Avalanche danger scale
Trip Planning and Preparation
Avalanche terrain recognition, assessment and selection
Route finding and travel techniques
Decision making and Human Factors
Companion Rescue and Equipment

Classroom vs. Field Time:

Day 1	50% Classroom 50% Field time Travel Techniques Observations, Terrain Identification Companion Rescue
Day 2	50% Classroom 50% Field time Instability Tests
Day 3	20% Classroom 80% Field time Travel in avalanche terrain Decision Making

Schedule may vary due to conditions.

Classroom Location:
Truckee, The Back Country or
Sugar Bowl, Backcountry Adventure Center (TBA)

Field Time Location:
Top of Donner Pass

Prerequisites:

The only prerequisite is to be able to travel on the field portions of the course over snow through avalanche terrain. The longest field exercise is about 5-6 hrs. stopping for field sessions and presentations along the way. These field sessions can be done by anyone in good physical condition. They can be done with snowshoes if someone lacks experience with backcountry skis or a splitboard/snowboard.

Many students interested in getting into the backcountry logically want to begin their education with an avalanche course. It is possible to do it this way if necessary. Avalanche education is a long term process that best begins with basic prerequisite skills, then, after completion of the AIARE L1 course, continues with ongoing learning and gaining experience over time on the snow.

ASI recommends previous backcountry travel experience found on courses such as:

XCD Backcountry
Intro to Backcountry Skiing
Intro to Splitboarding
Sugar Bowl Sidecountry

These simple, one-day courses emphasize use of touring equipment, basic travel skills, hazard recognition and avoidance. One of these courses or equivalent experience is a recommended prerequisite to get the most educational value from a thorough ASI AIARE L1 Course.

Questions about this course?

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