Hazards specific to winter conditions
Hazards specific to winter conditions
This domain tests judgement in avalanche terrain, on ice, in poor visibility and in extreme cold.
Avalanche
Most fatal slides are triggered by the victim on slopes of roughly 30–45°. Check the regional forecast (varsom.no) before riding. Avoid lee slopes, cornices and recent wind slabs. Cross suspect slopes one at a time, from a safe point, and carry beacon, probe and shovel if travelling in avalanche terrain.
Frozen water
Snow insulates and hides weak ice. Never assume a lake is safe because others have crossed; currents, springs and narrows thin the ice. Use local knowledge and marked crossings.
Visibility and cold
Flat light hides contours; slow down and use terrain features. Frostbite affects exposed skin first; hypothermia develops when wet or exhausted. Wildlife such as reindeer and moose may move suddenly - slow down and give way.
Worked example
You plan to cross a frozen lake early in the season. The correct action is to ask local people or the trail operator about marked safe crossings, and if there is any doubt, choose a land route.
Traps
Treating ice as uniformly safe; riding alone in avalanche terrain without rescue gear; and pressing on in whiteout to keep a schedule.