This survey was shared with the American Avalanche Associate via Montana State Billings and is not associated with A3.
“The use of avalanche airbags has become complicated among backcountry skiers, snowboarders, and snowmobilers. As they have risen in popularity, they have also become more frequent factors in avalanche accidents. Accident data suggests there may be a gap in knowing how to use these tools, and their relationship in conjunction with other avalanche safety gear. This project will aim to identify decision-making factors when using these tools to understand why people have made certain decisions prior to accidents. The learnings of how decisions are made around the use of these airbags can inform the greater community about proper decision-making and use.
The goal of this study is to begin understanding the decision-making process around avalanche airbag usage as a backcountry safety tool. As they have risen in popularity, they have also become more frequent factors in avalanche incidents. Accident data suggests there may be a gap in knowing how to use these tools, and their relationship in conjunction with other avalanche safety gear. This project will aim to identify decision-making factors when using these tools to understand why people have made certain decisions prior to accidents. Ideal participants will be owners of an avalanche airbag.”
Any questions may be directed to ryan.butler8@msubillings.edu
Ryan Butler, Assistant Professor, MSU Billings
Scott Nichols, Student Assistant, MSU Billings
