All guests participate in a safety briefing on the first
morning of their visit. This includes instructions on the use of the avalanche
transceiver, probe and shovel as well as procedures for avalanche rescue and
general backcountry safety tips.
Transceivers
Every guest is supplied with a Mammut Barryvox Pulse
Transceiver. For more information on the Pulse Transceiver visit the Mammut website. Try the interactive Barryvox training exercise
Important Note: Electronic equipment, metals and magnets such as radios, cellular phones,
cameras, music players, GPS, battery packs of any type, etc., may interfere with
the performance of your avalanche transceiver. Island Lake Catskiing recommends
that you only carry electronic devices that are essential while skiing. We also
require that any electronic devices that you bring skiing, be separated from
your avalanche transceiver. Your guide will give you instructions on how to
carry and use your transceiver in order to avoid interference.
Avalanche Flotation Devices
Avalanche Floatation Devices, AFDs, are not required at
Island Lake Catskiing. If a guest chooses to use an AFD, they can be rented in
Fernie at The Guides Hut (phone 1-888-843-4885)
or at the Gear Hub (phone 1.250.423.5555). Be
sure to phone ahead of time to reserve an AFD.
Guest
Packs
Every group is supplied
with six guest packs each containing an avalanche probe and shovel. Although
emphasis is often placed on the use of avalanche transceivers, avalanche probes
and shovels also play an important role in rescue. To learn more about
avalanche rescue including probing and shoveling techniques visit the Canadian Avalanche Centre online course
