Tranceivers: An essential for anyone entering the backcountry in an alpine environment.
You only have minutes to live if you are buried in an avalanche. If you are wearing a transceiver you have a significantly higher chance of being found quickly. So, whether you are recreating or working in avalanche prone terrain, you should always wear an avalanche transceiver and carry a shovel and a probe.
Types of avalanche tranceivers:
Several models of transceivers are imported into New Zealand. All 457 kHz models are compatible with each other but some models are better at finding different types of transceivers than others. Some models are better at searching for multiple burials than others.
Each type has its own way of working. Some require you to make volume adjustments, while others do it for you. Some change the sound they make depending on how close you are, while others have lights or arrows pointing in the direction of the buried person. Some can give you instructions on what to do next and some return to transmit mode after a set amount of time.
Digital transceivers convert the signal from the buried set into visual and audible signals that aid the searcher. Analogue transceivers do not apply any enhancement to the signal; the beep you hear is the actual unprocessed signal from the transmitting set. There is a change in volume when the searching analogue set receives a stronger signal.
It is important to know how to use these features on your transceiver. It is also important to know how to use the generic search techniques described in this pamphlet that will work with all 457 kHz models. Older transceivers with a frequency other than 457 kHz, or that feature more than one frequency, are either incompatible or are technically insufficient and should be destroyed. If you are uncertain whether your transceiver complies with the EN* standards, contact the NZ agent of the manufacturer.
Where to go for tranceivers:
Transceivers and safety equipment are available for purchase or hire through leading ski and snowboarding shops and outdoor equipment suppliers.
Contacts for transceiver hire:
MSC branches: Taumaranui (07 895 4445),
Canterbury (03 351 0942), Southland (03 221 7212),
Wakatipu (03 441 4099)
Wellington Avalanche Transceiver Trust http://www.avotrust.org.nz/
James Gordon Trust
http://www.snowtime.co.nz/
As with all of our safety tips: No safety awareness can be dangerous but a little awareness can be deadly. The NZMSC recommends those interested in alpine back country recreations to seek professional training.
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