Join Outbound Mountain Gear with San Juan Expeditions for AIARE Level 1 in the beautiful San Juan Range. 

The AIARE 1 is a three-day / 24-hour introduction to avalanche hazard management.

Students can expect to develop a good grounding in how to prepare for and carry out a backcountry trip, to understand basic decision making while in the field, and to learn rescue techniques required to find and dig up a buried person (if an avalanche occurs and someone in the party is caught).

Who Should Take this Course

The AIARE 1 is for ANYONE, regardless of method of travel, who wants to recreate in or near avalanche terrain. Participants may have attended some awareness classes or workshops or completed the Avalanche Rescue course, but none are a prerequisite for this course.

Aspiring professionals will need to take the AIARE 1 and Avalanche Rescue as a prerequisite for the Pro 1 course.

Student Learning Outcomes

At the end of the AIARE 1 course, the student should be able to:

• Develop a plan for travel in avalanche terrain.
• Demonstrate the ability to identify avalanche terrain.
• Effectively use The AIARE Risk Management Framework to make terrain choices in a group setting.
• Demonstrate effective companion rescue.

Prerequisites

Students must be able to travel in avalanche terrain and bring appropriate equipment for traveling on snow to class. There are no other prerequisites.

• Updated dual Quickdraw speed ferrules make for extremely fast deployment with maximum durability
• Rapid deployment stuffsack integrates with the probe’s pull cord for one-pull readiness
• Non-slip grip provides secure purchase, even with wet gloves
• Oversized, durable alloy tip improves probing sensitivity by creating a hole larger
• High-visibility 1 cm markings

• Housing with soft-touch contact points for improved ergonomics and handling
• Bluetooth functionality allows user to manage settings and software updates from the PIEPS mobile app
• Three antennas
• Circular range for extended, symmetrical search area
• Mark function for multiple burial scenarios
• Compatible with iProbe for added search capabilities
• Updateable software via Bluetooth and the PIEPS mobile app or USB (sold separately)
• Harness-style carrying pouch include

The BC Link™ Two-Way Radio 2.0 will maximize your line—and maximize your safety–now with twice the power. NOTE: Only approved for use in North America.

The BC Link™ Two-Way Radio 2.0 is our next generation radio with 2 Watts of power for increased usable range. Smart Mic grill is impervious to packing with snow. On/off/channel selection dial switch is protected from inadvertent channel changing.  Comes with long-lasting built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery, durable cord/base unit, and new battery percentage power display. Integrates into all Float avalanche airbag and Stash backpacks.

Find separated friends, communicate plans, stick your line and share observations in real-time with the BC Link group communication system. The Smart Mic user interface is located at your fingertips: to change settings, no need to dig the radio from your pack. Battery lasts for several days without recharging, even in cold temps. The Link 2.0 improves on our current system, with more power, more durability, and more weather resistance.

Charging the BC Link Radio 2.0 battery

For operating information, please download and read the BC Link Radio 2.0 Manual.  To charge the integrated battery on the BC Link 2.0 , attach the micro-USB cable to the micro-USB port in the battery. (You can use any powered USB port to recharge but use of the re-charger provided with the package is recommended.) TO VIEW THE BATTERY PERCENTAGE LEVEL, press the up and down arrowson your radio simultaneously. The battery charge level will be shown in percentage in the lower right corner or the radio display window. You may also view the battery power icon in the upper left on your radio.

BC Link Radios Manuals & Resources

• BC Link Radio 2.0 Manual
• BC Link Radio 2.0 Reference Card
• BC Link Radio Material Safety Sheet
• BC Link Radios – Human Factors and Group Communications
• FAQs – BC Link Radios

• Black Diamond Recon BT Beacon
• Transfer 3 Shovel
• Quickdraw Tour 280 Probe

Put the world’s lightest and fastest slope meter on YOUR ski pole.

How Steep Is It?

Knowing slope angle is a critical factor in assessing avalanche hazard.  The PoleClinometer^® slope meter is the quickest/easiest way to get accurate “on the go” slope angle measurements.  It’s a sticker you put on your ski pole that lets you measure slope angle by line-of-sight.

Easy & Versatile

There are many ways to use your PoleClinometer slope meter.  Here are two:

In both cases, just DANGLE IT!  Your pole must HANG FREELY from a loose grip for an accurate vertical reference.

Check out the use instructions for details and other use modes.

Works With Your Poles

The PoleClinometer slope meter will fit most ski poles available today.  There are some exceptions, so you might check the fit page just to be certain, but odds are it’ll work with what you have.

Ultra-Durable & Made To Last

Go ahead, beat the crap out of your gear.  PoleClinometer can take it.  Its burly crystal clear “heat-shrink” over-wrap sleeve protects the sticker and makes it uber-tough.  Both the over-wrap and the sticker itself are waterproof and UV-resistant.  Don’t be surprised if your PoleClinometer slope meter out-lasts your ski poles!

More Than Just a Sticker

Complete installation kit includes:

• • PoleClinometer Stickers
    (three sizes to fit all standard pole shaft diameters)
  • Clear Protective Skin for rugged durability
  • Optional DANG-A-LOOP bungee
  • Easy-to-Follow Instructions for installation and use

All About Avalanche Awareness

The goal of PoleClinometer is to help people stay safe in the mountains.  By making it quicker & easier than ever to read slope angles accurately, we hope the product will improve folks’ awareness of terrain as they travel through it, and ultimately lead to more informed decisions and improved avalanche safety.

But of course inclination is just one piece of the puzzle, and education is where it all comes together.  Your brain is the best tool you have for staying safe in the mountains, so take the time to sharpen that tool with top-notch training.

Know your slope angles.  Ski safe.  Have fun!

“I could still travel safely if I happened to leave my beacon home, but I would be very uncomfortable without my inclinometer, which I use constantly to help me make good decisions.”
— Jill Fredston, long-time avy guru and co-author of Snow Sense

• Updated dual Quickdraw speed ferrules make for extremely fast deployment with maximum durability
• Rapid deployment stuff sack integrates with the probe’s pull cord for one-pull readiness
• Non-slip grip provides secure purchase, even with wet gloves
• Oversized, durable alloy tip improves probing sensitivity by creating a hole larger than the probe shaft
• High-visibility 1 cm markings

This 10-liter booster attaches to our new JetForce Pro system, adding versatility to your avalanche airbag set-up. The 10-liter pack is technical and features a dedicated avy-tool pocket and plenty of storage for extra layers, water and additional gear, ideal for quick tours and out-of-the gate sidecountry laps. 

• Attaches to the Black Diamond JetForce Pro system
• Dedicated avy tools pocket and single ice axe attachment

Course Description

AIARE Avalanche Rescue is a one-day stand alone course that is intended to be retaken on a regular basis in order to keep abreast of best practices in rescue techniques and gear. New participants will learn the basics of companion rescue, while returning participants will expand their skill set with advanced topics and realistic scenario practice to help improve their skills.

Each participant will have the opportunity to receive professional coaching on their rescue skills, and will receive a rescue card acknowledging the completion date.

AIARE Avalanche Rescue is a prerequisite for the AIARE 2 and Pro 1 courses. AIARE recommends that all backcountry travelers keep their skills current by taking an Avalanche Rescue course and receiving a rescue card at least every other year.

Who Should Take this Course

The Avalanche Rescue Course is a one-day course aimed both at new and experienced recreational backcountry travelers and aspiring avalanche professionals.

 

Photo: Grant Gunderson

Student Learning Outcomes

At the end of the Avalanche Rescue course the student should be able to:

• Describe what to do if they or a member of their party is caught in an avalanche.
• Identify and be able to use gear necessary for avalanche rescue.
• Set up a realistic scenario in order to practice an avalanche rescue response.
• Improve their response skills and times during and after the course with feedback from instructors and peers.
• Develop a plan for continuing practice.

All students will have the opportunity to get feedback from an instructor on their rescue skills and timed practice in a realistic scenario.

Students who have previously taken an AIARE 1 or an Avalanche Rescue Course will find value in having a professional help them set up realistic scenarios, practice skills in a realistic setting, receive feedback from an instructor, keep up with current best practices, and have an opportunity to practice advanced rescue skills.

The 2 Meter ruler made from fiberglass allows you to accurately measure the columns and depths of your snow pit. It conveniently folds up to save room in your pack and is built to last. The compact product expands to two meters, an ideal length for snow measurements. The ruler weight is only 130g due to the sturdy yet lightweight fiberglass composition. Stay safe and prevent an avalanche accident by monitoring the snowpack with this snow safety tool.

BCA designed it’s snow study tools in conjunction with North America’s most experienced avalanche educators. BCA snow study tools allow you to gather all of the data you need, without breaking the bank.

The Backcountry Decision-Making Guide is an essential snow study tool for the aspiring avalanche professional or serious student. Developed by the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE) to meet the American Avalanche Association (AAA) standards. Used with a pencil, the pages are waterproof so you can collect data even on the wettest days.

The field book includes the AIARE Communication Checklist, AIARE Decision Making Framework, and AIARE Observations Reference. Along with the AIARE information, you will use the 50 format pages for entering trip plans, field observations, and snow profiles to make educated decisions while in the backcountry.

The Lexan polycarbonate crystal card provides a surface to analyze/classify snow grains and also has a slope index, which allows you to determine slope angles from a topographical map. Snow crystals placed on the card become recognizable and sizable. Ideal for sunnier climates, the Lexan crystal card does not absorb as much radiation as the aluminum crystal card, which allows you to study snow crystals longer and more accurately. This small yet very informational tool will take your snow safety skills to a new level.

The aluminum crystal card provides a surface to analyze/classify snow grains and also has a slope index, which allows you to determine slope angles from a topographical map. Snow crystals placed on the card become recognizable and sizable. With the aluminum card version, you can expect durability and long term usage. This small yet very informational tool will take your snow safety skills to a new level.

BCA designed it’s snow study tools in conjunction with North America’s most experienced avalanche educators. BCA snow study tools allow you to gather all of the data you need, without breaking the bank.

The Backcountry Access analog thermometer is a valuable snow safety tool that allows you to accurately measure the temperature gradient of the snowpack. With the ability to measure the snow and air’s temperature, you can prevent an accident by avoiding avalanche terrain. This product comes with a sling for easy attachment to skis during air temperature reading. Be sure to bring the thermometer on your next backcountry excursion.

BCA designed its snow study tools in conjunction with North America’s most experienced avalanche educators. Backcountry Access snow study tools allow you to gather all of the data you need, without breaking the bank.

The BCA Slope Meter is a lightweight multi-use tool for your pack. Designed with an inclinometer and a built-in compass to measure slope angle and aspect, this appliance is pocket-friendly and easy to carry with a lanyard attachment point. This Backcountry Access product has a metal ball inside a liquid-filled tube that measures the slopes angle when placed perpendicular to the snow. With an angle range of zero to sixty degrees, you can test to see if a slope is too steep and avalanche prone. Stabilizing quickly for fast reading, this product is essential for a safe backcountry experience. Flip the meter over and you can use the sharp edges to remove excess snow from your skins.

The B-2 EXT avalanche shovel is extendable and comes with the medium sized B2 blade. The B-2 EXT is the ultimate tool for those as serious about digging and snow safety as we are.  The Bomber line boasts an off-the-chart strength to weight ratio, while taking up minimal storage space in your pack. Remember, the excavation process in an avalanche rescue is where the most time can be lost or gained.

B-2 EXT Avalanche Shovel Features

• The 6061 aluminum BCA Bomber shovels feature an oval shaft with a more packable, bombproof, “ferrule-less” blade, ergonomic grip, and T6 heat treatment.
• Includes an end cap on the shaft, which prevents snow from building up along the inside.

Our Stealth 270 avalanche probe features the easiest and fastest assembly on the market, with no loose cable to cause hangups. The top segment stealthfully nests inside the next probe section, reducing the number of segments and size of the probe bundle when disassembled in your pack. Equipped with laser-etched depth markings for measuring snowpack and/or victim depth to determine the dimensions of the excavation area before shoveling. Our Quick-Lock hardware allows for the best packability and deployment speed on the market. Stealth probes are built to last and save valuable seconds during an avalanche rescue when time matters.

LIGHTWEIGHT, EASY-TO-USE CABLE FOR SNOW STUDY

STREAMLINED, LIGHT AND VERY TOUGH

The G3 BONESAW is streamlined, packable, lightweight, easily extendable and tough enough to cut through bone, wood, and ice. It features slots for easy attachment to your ski pole or shovel shaft and includes a lightweight sheath and a 400 mm Tension Strap.

Total Length: 47 cm / 18 in
Cutting Length: 35 cm / 14 in
Weight: 169 g / 5.9 oz
Hardened Stainless Steel

FEATURES

The AVI remains the choice for those who want a reliable tool in case of a backcountry emergency, as well as an easy to use tool for all snow study needs. Available as powerful D-grip or lightweight T-grip handle.

- Maximum strength
- Shaft grip makes digging faster and more comfortable
- Flat blade surface for snow study use
- Telescoping shaft
- Slotted blade for rescue sled construction

730 g / 1 lb 10 oz (T-Grip)
770 g / 1 lb 11.2 oz (D-Grip)
Packed Length: 46 cm / 18 in
Blade Width: 24 cm / 9.5 in
Blade Length: 26.5 cm / 10.5 in
6061 T6 aluminum blade, TIG weld