Hi there,

If you are heading out for some skiing, be sure to check the area and assess the possibilities for an avalanche. You will want to be ready for any eventuality, including an avalanche. Make sure you carry a shovel, a transceiver beacon, and probes, and do not forget to put on a Black Diamond Avalung II.

Black Diamond Avalung II

Avalanche victims increase their chances of being rescued alive if they can find a way to breathe air while they’re buried under the snow. This is exactly where the Black Diamond Avalung II can help. Although quite dense, avalanche debris still contains about 50% air. The Avalung is a filtration system that allows you to draw air from the snow and breathe. To prevent ice from forming in front of you when you exhale (which would cut off the access to air in the snow pack), the exhaled air goes out through an exhaust tube at your back. In this manner, you can continue breathing for several more hours.

The Black Diamond Avalung II is specially designed with a membrane to help you pull the air you need from the snow. You have to make sure the mouthpiece is in your mouth, to allow you to breathe in and out using the tube. It is important that when an avalanche is coming you quickly insert the mouthpiece into your mouth before your movements get restricted by the debris. This is why it is best to already strap the Black Diamond Avalung II over your ski jacket before you head out; that way, the mouthpiece will always be near your mouth in case you’ll need it

With your Black Diamond Avalung II, shovel, beacon and snow probes, you’re all set for your backcountry skiing or snowmobiling. One more thing, there is no substitute for training in using these devices. Long before the need arises, make sure you practice using them. Life has no reset button, think safety.

Safe living,
Yovette Mumford

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