Right now
Move to the side. Fight to stay on top.
If caught, try to move to the side of the avalanche. If buried, create an air space in front of your face before the snow sets. Stay calm and conserve air.
Where you are right now
Your situation determines what you do
If you see an avalanche above you
Move to the side, not downhill. If you cannot escape, grab a tree or solid object. Let go of your skis, board, and poles, which act as anchors and can injure you, but keep your pack on for flotation and pull your avalanche airbag if you have one. Survival depends on not being buried deeply.
If you are caught in moving snow
Try to stay on the surface. Use swimming motions. As the snow slows, create an air space in front of your face with one hand. Push the other hand toward the surface. Spit to determine which way is down, since you may be disoriented.
If someone near you is buried
Mark the point where you last saw them. Search the area downhill from that point. Time is critical: survival rates drop sharply after 15 minutes. If you have a beacon, switch to search mode immediately. Probe systematically and dig fast when you get a hit.
If you are in avalanche terrain
Check the local avalanche forecast before entering backcountry in winter. Travel with a beacon, probe, and shovel. Never travel alone in avalanche terrain. Cross avalanche slopes one person at a time while the others watch from a safe spot, and regroup only in safe areas. That way, if the slope releases, only one person is caught and the rest can dig them out. Avoid slopes steeper than 30 degrees when conditions are unstable.
After the immediate danger
What to do next
Start rescue immediately
Do not leave to get help unless you have exhausted all search options. Most avalanche survivors are rescued by their companions, not by organized rescue teams. Every minute matters.
Dig efficiently
Once located, dig from the downhill side to uncover the person's head and chest first. Clear their airway. Insulate them from the snow immediately to prevent further heat loss.
Call for help
Once the immediate rescue is underway, call 911 or local search and rescue if cell service is available. Report your exact location, the number of people involved, and the status of anyone found.
Sources: National Avalanche Center, Ready.gov Winter Weather, Colorado Avalanche Information Center, Forest Service National Avalanche Center Rescue Guidelines. All safety claims verified against primary sources. Last reviewed August 30, 2026.
This guide is not professional emergency management advice. It is a plain-language starting point for someone in an active hazard right now.