Avalanche Transceivers - Electromagnetic Interference UIAA Recommendations

Electromagnetic interference has long been a known issue with avalanche transceivers.  But how much of an issue?  And what do we do about it? The UIAA released guidelines earlier this month describing what types of electromagnetic...

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    Tracking PWLs: Tahoe Snowpack Tests 2023-12-24

    We dug in the snowpack to investigate the Persistent Weak Layer and see if the layer has gained some strength after the intense rain/snow storm we received last week. 
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      Avalanche Transceiver Upgrade Trade-In Program

      Looking to upgrade to a shiny new Barryvox Avalanche Transceiver? Blackbird clients can upgrade their old transceiver to a new Mammut Barryvox for 40% off retail when they trade in their old, fully functional digital transceiver.  See details in the blog!
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        Video: How to Use Snowpack Tests

        Our Video demonstrates an excellent progression of snowpack tests that can help to flesh out the hazards in the backcountry snowpack.  It shows how to make snowpack observations and conduct snowpack tests to inform your understanding of the avalanche hazard.  Remember, you're not trying to be an avalanche forecaster - always read the avalanche forecast!

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          Why Your Avalanche Rescue Course Should be Lift Accessed

          It sounds like a funny idea: training for avalanche rescue at a ski resort Shouldn’t a backcountry course take place in the backcountry?  Isn’t the whole point of taking an AIARE course being in the backcountry? As surprising as it may be, in the case of the Avalanche Rescue Course, the answer to these questions is a resounding no. 
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            What is the AIARE 2 Avalanche Course?

            Avalanches are hard to predict and avalanche education is a lifelong pursuit.  After the AIARE Level 1 Avalanche Course and Avalanche Rescue Course, the AIARE Level 2 is the next step.  We explore what the next chapter in your avalanche education is all about! 
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              When is the best time of year to take an avalanche course?

              Like snowflakes, no two courses are the same. Whatever time frame you choose to take an avalanche course, get the most out of your time in the field and take advantage of the conditions at hand!  We cover the pros and cons of taking an avalanche course in each part of the season.
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                Do I really need an Avalanche Rescue Course?

                Avalanche Level 1 originally intended to do two things.  It aimed to provide a baseline understanding of avalanches and decision making to avoid avalanches and to provide rescue skills in the event of an accident. As it turns out, this was a lot to cram into the original 3 day AIARE 1.  That's where the Avalanche Rescue Course enters the picture.  This blog post investigates why this separation was a good thing and what the Avalanche Rescue Course means for your abilities in the field.

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                  Why is Avalanche Education important?

                  It seems that most everyone has received the message at this point: if you're going into the backcountry, you need to take an Avy Course.  But why is this so important?  Is it really all that complicated? Is it really that dangerous?  What do we learn in these classes anyway?

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