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Avalanche airbags & backpacks

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Avalanche airbags for safety on the mountains

Avalanche airbags, also known as inflatable backpacks, have become increasingly popular among backcountry adventurers for their life-saving potential during avalanches. These innovative bags are designed to help anyone trapped in the rush of an avalanche by keeping them closer to the surface of moving snow. They also improve visibility in chaotic snow conditions and offer protection against the potential trauma that an avalanche can cause. As backcountry skiing, snowshoeing and other activities grow in popularity each passing winter, being fully prepared for whatever the elements can throw at you is more important than ever, and having the right avalanche safety gear and training is essential. You can find several different avalanche airbags and backpacks at MEC from brands like Ortovox, Backcountry Access, Black Diamond and more.

How does an avalanche airbag work?

Avalanche airbags are straightforward but super effective. When an avalanche happens, you have to manually activate the airbag by pulling the trigger. Unlike car airbags that deploy automatically upon impact, avalanche airbags require the user to take immediate action. The inflation mechanism varies between manufacturers: some use compressed-air cartridges, while others employ electronically powered fans to rapidly inflate the airbag. Once activated, the airbag will be inflated for several minutes, increasing your volume. The buoyancy helps keep the wearer near the surface of sliding debris, making it easier to breathe and reducing your likelihood of being buried by the heavy snow. The bag also provides a cushion for your head and neck from rocks and other hard surfaces.

Safety first

Knowing how to correctly use your avalanche airbag is crucial. While they can significantly enhance your safety in an encounter with an avalanche, they’re not foolproof. They should complement, not replace, other essential avalanche safety gear like transceivers, probes, shovels and more. Ask MEC staffers for tips or find mor research online about proper use for avalanche airbags, and practice before your adventure.

Travelling with your avalanche airbag

For backcountry adventurers who travel by plane, many airlines have strict regulations about carrying compressed-air cartridges due to safety concerns. In some cases, you might be restricted to carrying an empty cartridge that you’ll have to refill after you’ve reached you’ve landed, or go with an electronic option.