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.
|