How To

How to Buy an Avalanche Beacon for Backcountry Skiing

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By eHow Contributing Writer
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Beep, beep, beep. It's amazing how such a simple sound could save your life.

Difficulty: Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Avalanche Beacon
  • Avalanche Probe
  • Backcountry Snow Shovel
  1. Step 1

    Determine how much you can spend on an avalanche beacon. Most beacons run between $250 and $300.

  2. Step 2

    Choose either an analog beacon that gives audible signals, or a digital beacon that gives both audible and visual signals.

  3. Step 3

    Pick a beacon that comes with a sturdy harness that will keep the beacon in place at your side.

  4. Step 4

    Test beacons in the store before you buy one.

  5. Step 5

    Buy the beacon that is easiest for you to use and the one that makes the most sense to you.

  6. Step 6

    Practice as often as you can with your beacon before heading into avalanche terrain.

Tips & Warnings
  • Remember, a beacon won't do you any good unless your backcountry ski partners are also equipped with avalanche beacons.
  • An avalanche probe and backcountry ski shovel are also useful items to buy. These will help search for and dig out an avalanche victim.
  • Backcountry skiing is a physically challenging sport that could result in serious injury. We recommend that you seek proper equipment and training before undertaking this activity.

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