Sadly the 2020/2021 winter season, saw 11 deaths due to avalanches in the Valais region of Switzerland
To reduce that number, many new measures have been brought in this season, thanks to a working group that includes the police, the rescue services, Swiss Association of Mountain Guides, the Institute for the Study of Snow and Avalanches SLF and the tourism sector.
Verbier to act as test resort
In partnership with this working group, the Swiss ski resort of Verbier has agreed to act as a test resort for this benchmark programme.
While fatalities on the roads in Valais has decreased significantly over the past few decades (from 117 deaths in 1970 to just 10 in 2020), that fall has not been seen in relation to avalanches.
Level 3 is most dangerous
Partly this is because the European five-level avalanche danger scale is not always understood and appreciated by skiers.
Perhaps surprisingly, it’s ‘Level 3’, which is the most critical. Studies have shown that 65% of fatal accidents occur at this level of avalanche danger, perhaps because it’s perceived as being in the ‘middle’ of the scale. In reality, it is the maximum level for non-experienced skiers or those who are not accompanied by a mountain guide when tackling the off-piste.
New ideas being trialled in Verbier
The new plan will be deployed in Verbier in three specific ways:
New Prevention Broadcasts
Messages relating to Levels 3 and 4, together with additional avalanche forecasts, will be broadcast across social networks, using the hashtag #freeridesafer
Improved Signage
More prevention messages – again relating to Levels 3 and 4 – will be displayed on screens and posters, as well as available as flyers, at ski lift stations and around the resort.
New website
A new website ‘avalanche-check.ch’ gives skiers a chance to test their knowledge of avalanche danger online. Topics covered include preparing to go off piste, assessing avalanche danger and how to manage a critical rescue.
Users can also enter a free draw with a chance to win prizes including a heliskiing outing, airbags, avalanche kit, lift tickets and more.
Accommodation in Verbier
For independent advice on the best options for accommodation in Verbier, please contact the Chaletline team on 01822 617761
