Avalanche Probe Stick

🏔️ WHEN AN AVALANCHE STRIKES, EVERY SECOND MATTERS

The recent tragedy on Broad Peak is a painful reminder that high-altitude climbing comes with serious and unpredictable risks.

One essential piece of avalanche rescue equipment every serious climber should understand is the Probe Stick.

🎯 What is an Avalanche Probe?

An avalanche probe is a long, collapsible pole used to locate a person buried beneath snow after an avalanche.

When visibility is poor and a buried climber cannot be seen, rescuers systematically probe the avalanche debris to determine whether a person is underneath and to estimate their location and depth.

🏔️ How do climbers use it?

1️⃣ Avalanche occurs

The team immediately switches to rescue procedures and assesses the scene for further avalanche danger.

2️⃣ Locate the victim

An avalanche transceiver, if available, is used to narrow down the victim's location.

3️⃣ Probe the snow

The probe is assembled and inserted systematically into the debris to locate the buried person and determine their approximate depth.

4️⃣ Dig carefully

Once the victim's position is identified, rescuers dig strategically toward them rather than randomly digging through the avalanche debris.

5️⃣ Act fast

Once located, the victim is uncovered and assessed immediately.

⚠️ IMPORTANT

A probe stick does not prevent an avalanche and cannot guarantee survival. It is one part of a proper avalanche rescue system, alongside appropriate training, an avalanche transceiver, shovel, teamwork, route assessment and knowledge of mountain conditions.

In the mountains, preparation isn't optional.

Carry the right equipment.

Know how to use it.

Train before you need it.

Snow Safety Eqp — Be Prepared. Stay Safe.