Caution avalanches!
Stephan Harvey, Lukas Dürr, Martin Ruggli, Jürg Schweizer
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Harvey S., Dürr L., Ruggli M., Schweizer J. (2026) Caution avalanches! (9., fully revised edition). Core Training Team «Avalanche Accident Prevention in Snow Sports». 2 p
Now in its ninth edition, the leaflet ‘Beware of Avalanches!’ summarises the latest knowledge on avalanches and prevention concisely on a single page and is based on the most recent findings from research and practice. It is supported by all associations and organisations in the snow sports sector.
With this leaflet, the Swiss ‘Core Training Team for Avalanche Prevention in Snow Sports (KAT)’ pursues two key objectives: On the one hand, it serves as a foundation for avalanche training, from tour planning to how to behave following an avalanche accident. On the other hand, it provides guidance for assessing avalanche danger and making decisions, whether during tour planning, out in the terrain or on an individual slope.
The front cover outlines the basic procedure and mindset for risk assessment and contains the key content for basic training. The reverse side explores this content in greater depth and supports the assessment of avalanche danger using typical avalanche scenarios. This directs the focus towards the crucial factors and questions relevant to the formation of avalanches.
The leaflet is primarily aimed at instructors in the field of avalanche prevention, as well as ski tourers and freeriders. Its handy format, concise presentation of information and attractive design are intended to encourage users to refresh what they have learnt, whether at home or out and about. At the same time, the leaflet serves as a compact training resource.
Stephan Harvey from the WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research (SLF) says: “The leaflet is an ideal cheat sheet for when you’re out and about. It should be noted, however, that it is not self-explanatory; rather, it requires a certain level of prior knowledge or should be used under expert guidance. The content should therefore ideally be studied as part of an avalanche course and in combination with other teaching materials.”
The leaflet is compatible with standard specialist literature, in particular the works *Lawinen* and *Bergsport Winter*. Furthermore, all topics can be applied and explored in greater depth using the White Risk platform.