Wilderness Medicine Updates

Ep. 21 - Snow Immersion Suffocation

5 snips
Mar 26, 2025
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INSIGHT

Silent Killer: Snow Immersion Suffocation

  • Snow immersion suffocation is a silent killer in deep powder skiing, unlike the obvious avalanche threat.
  • It occurs when skiers fall into tree wells and become trapped, leading to rapid suffocation without external signs.
INSIGHT

Key Factors for Snow Immersion Deaths

  • Deep unconsolidated snow, treed terrain, and a headfirst fall are key factors in snow immersion deaths.
  • These conditions are prevalent in western North America ski areas, making them hotspots for incidents.
ANECDOTE

Rescue Saves Patroller's Life

  • An off-duty ski patroller survived a tree well fall thanks to immediate partner rescue and CPR.
  • These survival cases are rare and depend on rapid recognition and response.
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