The Avalanche Hour Podcast
Deep Slabs and Decision-Making – A Legacy of Safety with Chris Stethem and Grant Statham (Part 2)
Feb 1, 2025
In this compelling discussion, Chris Stethem and Grant Statham, both veterans in avalanche safety and research, delve into the evolution of decision-making frameworks in the field. They highlight the significance of the InfoEx system's development and how advanced communication has transformed safety practices. The guests reflect on the importance of higher certification standards, the dynamics of deep slab avalanches, and the balance between scientific assessments and real-world experience. Their insights underline the ongoing evolution of collaboration, safety regulations, and risk management in avalanche terrain.
01:17:39
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Quick takeaways
- The evolution of avalanche safety protocols, including stricter certifications and compliance, has significantly improved worker and public safety standards.
- Advancements in technologies like remote sensing and LiDAR have revolutionized avalanche risk assessment, enabling better monitoring and predicting of avalanche occurrences.
Deep dives
The Importance of Avalanche Safety Protocols
The discussion highlights the necessity of strict safety protocols in avalanche control to minimize risk during operations. Communicating effective avalanche safety plans and guidelines is crucial for ensuring the well-being of workers and the public. The advent of regulatory frameworks, such as the Avalanche Safety Plan in British Columbia, underscores the importance of documented safety practices. These regulations have led to improvements in overall operational safety and efficiency in avalanche management.
