Avalanche beacons & transceivers

Avalanche beacons and transceivers for safety in the snow

Avalanche transceivers, also called avalanche beacons, are indispensable for backcountry adventurers in the winter. These compact electronic devices emit a constant radio signal, which is crucial during an avalanche or any other accidents that can occur out in the wild. Each group member must wear their own transceiver, and in the event of a burial, other group members can switch their devices to search mode to locate the buried person using the transmitted signal. It’s important to practice using them on a regular basis, so you won’t be left unsure of what to do in the event of an emergency. Beacons and transceivers are essential when it comes to avalanche safety gear and training, so be sure to visit your local MEC to get some tips from our expert staffers and to get fully prepped for anything.

Usage and guidelines

Start your trip by turning on all beacons and transceivers and confirm that they’re functioning properly—most devices provide a battery check on startup. Make sure to follow the rule: "on at the car, off at the bar," keeping your transceiver active throughout the day. Wear it close to your body, preferably on your base layer, for secure and effective use. Batteries can drain faster in cold weather or during multi-day trips, so monitor your power levels and replace batteries as often as necessary to meet the recommendations provided by the avalanche beacon manufacturer.

Analog vs. digital transceivers

All transceivers sold by MEC are three-antenna digital devices, which are now the industry standard. Digital transceivers are faster, more accurate and more intuitive than older analog models, particularly during searches. Analog transceivers, which are no longer recommended by Avalanche Canada, can cause complications during multiple-burial searches. If analog transceivers are still in use within your group, upgrading to digital ensures better safety for everyone.

Maintenance and care

Regular maintenance is essential to keep your transceiver reliable and in working condition. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for updates and checks, ensuring it’s in peak condition before heading out. By integrating avalanche transceivers into your gear and honing your skills in their use, you’ll be better prepped for the risks of backcountry adventures.