Southern Region's

Public Information & Education

EMS In Alaska - Neighbor Helping Neighbor

                              Watch Out for Avalanches!

Conditions that can cause an avalanche include:    weather, temperature, slope steepness, slope orientation (facing north or south), wind direction, terrain, vegetation, and general snowpack conditions. Conditions can change on a daily or hourly basis.

Before crossing a slope where there is a possibility of an avalanche:

• Fasten all your clothing securely to keep out snow

• Loosen your pack so you can slip out of it easily

•  If you’re skiing, remove your ski pole straps

• Make sure that your avalanche beacon is on and switched to “transmit.” 

• Cross the slope one at a time

If you are caught in an avalanche use “swimming motions,” thrusting upward to try to stay near the surface of the snow. Unless you are on the surface, and your hands are free, it is almost impossible to dig yourself out.

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Injury Prevention Materials available for download

Yes, You Can Survive An Earthquake

Alaska Symbols for Safety

Alaska Safety Gauge
Safety Drummers
Clapping for Safety
Safe Home poster

How Safe is Your Home?
Halloween Safety Tips
Holiday Safety Tips

Carbon Monoxide

Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Emergency Preparedness Checklist

Food Storage Checklist

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click here for the free download file.

For safety and injury prevention brochures and/or additional information, contact Karen Lawfer

Southern Region EMS Council | 6130 Tuttle Place | Anchorage, AK 99507 | Phone  (907) 562-6449  |  562-9893 (FAX)