Avalanche Classes Scheduled for February

Avalanches are more likely to occur after a heavy snowstorm.

Recent snowfall puts extra stress on the existing snow pack, especially if the new snow does not adequately bond with the layer of snow already there. Snowfall amounts of one foot or more create the most hazardous situation, producing avalanches that are large enough to block highways and cause major destruction.

These are exactly the condidtions we've had at Mt. Baldy recently. When steep terrain is combined with varying weather, slope angle and orientation, perfect conditions for avalanches, especially along Chair 1 can be created.

Two classes are set for this month that may help us respond to an avalanche event.

Avy I Class February 16 and 18

Avalanche near Chair 1.

Baldy is steep and gets deep snow dumps. That makes it prone to avalanches on our black diamond runs.

 Keith Church has scheduled a Level I Avalanche class for February 16 and 18 in Claremont.
In addition, two field sessions are set at Mt. Baldy the following week from 9 a.m. till 4 p.m., February 20 and 21.
The cost is $75 and it includes all books. In addition, Keith is trying to reserve bunks at Harwood for anyone who wants to stay overnight.
He promises an outstanding educational experience. Here are some pictures of last year's class and one of the avalanche we had at Baldy.

Contact Keith Church for more information.

Level II Avalanche Course Scheduled for Late February

Keith Church is holding an Avalanche II class beginning Feb 23.
The classroom sessions will be held in Claremont on Feb. 23, 25, and Mar. 1 and 3, with followup field work Mar. 6, 20 and 21 at Mt. Baldy.
The cost is $125. Contack him at keith.church@hotmail.com if you're interested. 		Inspecting Snow Core.

By examining snow and ice layers in a study pit, a patroller can determine, to some extent, the danger of an avalanche.
Practicing a Probe Line.

One rescue response to an avalanche is to form a
probe line looking for victims.