How to prepare for avalanche threat to increase with snow build-up

DENVER (BNN) - - Any time there is a snowstorm, it increases the threat of avalanche threat.

The natural danger eliminates 6 people on average in the state every year.

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Ethan Greene, Director of the Colorado Avalanche Information Center informed FOX31 it takes a bit of knowledge, training and the appropriate equipment to avoid them.

The map on the CAIC's website showed no avalanche risk in the state of Colorado on Saturday, but forecasters state that's everything about to alter.

" Anytime we have a snowstorm, we're visiting the increase in the avalanche threat," Greene said.

He said just how much and where the avalanche threat increases depends upon the time of year.

" We record over 5,000 avalanches a year. We put out everyday products for public recreation and for Department of Transportation to handle the avalanche risks to the state and federal highways. Every day starting in November and going into Memorial Day," he stated.

Greene says it's a great concept to get some education if you're heading to the mountains to do some winter recreation.

" The most important thing for individuals to do is in fact examine the avalanche projection," he stated. "We'll have a projection up there every day that will pretty much inform you where the most dangerous locations are so you can attempt and avoid them."

If you're taking a trip in avalanche terrain a lot, you'll want to ensure you're prepared.

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"That's having avalanche rescue equipment and avalanche rescue transceiver, a probe bowl and a shovel" Greene explained.

The group recently commemorated 50 years of education and safety. The way they track avalanches has altered significantly over the last 5 years.

"The center started in one workplace in Fort Collins, mainly gathering information by calling individuals on the phone and speaking to other groups around the state, putting out details through telex makers and eventually sort of phone recordings. Now we're a group of 30 people spread out around the state," Greene said.

Greene states although it's still pretty early in the season, there are places where you can activate avalanches. They're usually smaller, however that doesn't mean they're not harmful.

The most crucial thing to do is check the avalanche projection before you go out into the mountains, he stated.