Today Alaska is the only mountainous Pacific Northwest state without
a state or federal funded avalanche forecasting center. And for this
Alaskans have paid dearly. For years we have had the highest avalanche
death rate per capita in the United States. In 2002 we exceed Colorado as
number one with twelve deaths that season. Alaska is now leading the
nation for avalanche deaths regardless of population.
In order to recreate safely in Alaska you most become your own
avalanche expert. And that means one thing, training! The one
way to help prevent avalanche fatalities is to gain the knowledge and experience
to make good decisions in the backcountry. Below is a list of books,
web sites, and training centers to start you on your way.
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