Freeride skiing has become much more democratic over the last 10 years, thanks in particular to the evolution of the equipment, a better visibility in the media and with onboard cameras. However the practice of fre eride requires a lot of precautions which depend on natural elements. We present you what is important to take into account before each outing.

1) Knowledge of the terrain and weather

Advance each outing outside Freeride it is necessary to know where you are going, to know the terrain. You can never remember it enough but the mountain is dangerous and may not give you a chance. A good knowledge of the terrain and the study of our outing is a guarantee of safety.

Ask yourself the right questions: what is the weather forecast ? what is the weather like? what is the avalanche risk level? What is the quality of the snow? On which side do we ski (north / south)?

2) Know who you are going with

It is often forgotten but when you are a coach or when you bring friends along it is important to appreciate their level. It is better to make a less committed outing and that everything goes well than to take someone on slopes that may put everyone in danger. When you are taken along by friends if you think you are not on the level, it is better to refuse to go than to take risks.

It is also important to know your physical condition at the time and especially not to overestimate yourself. You can endanger your companions on outings.

3) Going out with the right equipment

All freeride outings must be done with: 1 backpack, 1 shovel, 1 probe and a DVA.

The Arva, Mammut, Ortovox and Pieps brands are the leaders in avalanche safety. They offer you equipment adapted to your needs and your outings. They are easy to use

As soon as you get away from the marked runs, the Airbag is more than recommended. In more than 95% of cases if you have triggered it it saves you from theavalanche. This bag with balloons allows you to flop over the avalanche.

4) Be trained in the use of the equipment

It is important to carry out regular and annual blank tests for avalanche victims: alone and/or in groups. When you are actually confronted with an avalanche, it is important to have the right equipment and to know how to use it. A victim under an avalanche can only survive 15 to 20 minutes maximum.

You have to be fast and efficient. Ski clubs / alpine clubs regularly organize training days.

Knowing your equipment (ski / skin too) is also an asset to succeed in each of your outings.

5) Do not endanger others

Before going out it is important to know in which environment we are evolving and who is around us. You have to take everything to avoid triggering an avalanche on controls that can move 100 - 200 meters lower... the mountain will not forgive you.

If you have any doubts: it is better to go out with a guide, a mountain connoisseur, or even with a ski club.