Shoveling is easily the most strenuous and time consuming phase of the avalanche rescue. With efficient techniques, the process can become much faster and easier, leading to quicker rescues. Knowing where to place your shovel, understanding when to use hoe mode versus traditional mode, and having very strong knowledge of the different techniques is necessary to making sure rescues are done quickly.
Backcountry Access created an Avalanche Shoveling 101 YouTube video as a part of their avalanche rescue series to ensure that your knowledge stays fresh. Make sure you’ve taken a proper avalanche course before heading out into the backcountry.
“Shoveling is the most time-consuming phase of an avalanche rescue. In this updated video, BCA’s Andy Wenberg takes you through the “ABC’s and D of Digging,” using 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 shovelers. The crux is to start digging downhill of the probe strike (not straight down), to clear snow to the sides first, and to avoid moving snow more than once.“