Avalanche Rescue Basics: First Aid After a Burial
Avalanches remain one of the most serious hazards in winter mountain sports, particularly in ski touring, freeride, and winter mountaineering. Survival after an avalanche burial depends not only on rapid companion rescue, but also on correct first aid immediately after extrication. Poor handling after rescue can significantly worsen outcomes, even when the victim is found quickly.
This article focuses on first aid priorities following avalanche burial and the critical actions required during the minutes after extrication.
Types of Avalanche Involvement
Avalanche incidents vary in severity:
Partial burial, where the victim remains visible
Complete burial, requiring full transceiver search and excavation
Multiple burials, significantly complicating rescue priorities
Each scenario demands clear role distribution and calm decision-making.
Immediate Priorities After Extrication
Once the victim is uncovered, first aid must begin immediately:
Clear the airway first, removing snow and ice from the mouth and nose
Assess breathing and consciousness
Begin rescue breathing if the victim is not breathing
Avoid unnecessary movement until initial assessment is complete
Time is critical, but actions must remain controlled and systematic.
Hypothermia Management After Burial
Avalanche victims are almost always hypothermic:
Insulate the victim from the snow immediately
Add dry layers and wind protection
Handle gently to avoid triggering cardiac arrhythmias
Avoid active rewarming if the victim is unconscious
Hypothermia management continues until professional rescue takes over.
Trauma Assessment and Management
Avalanches often cause blunt trauma:
Assess for chest, head, and spinal injuries
Immobilize suspected fractures where possible
Control bleeding using direct pressure
Treat the victim as a trauma patient even if initially responsive
Trauma and hypothermia must be managed simultaneously.
Cardiac Arrest and Resuscitation Considerations
Special considerations apply in avalanche rescue:
If airway was blocked, focus on ventilation first
Prolonged resuscitation may be justified in hypothermic patients
Continue CPR until rescue services advise otherwise
Cold victims may appear lifeless but remain salvageable.
Group Management During Rescue
Effective group coordination is essential:
Assign clear roles immediately after extrication
Keep non-essential members warm and out of the fall line
Prepare for prolonged care if evacuation is delayed
Poor group management can turn one accident into multiple casualties.
When to Call for Professional Rescue
Rescue services should be contacted as early as possible if:
The victim was fully buried
Consciousness is altered
Trauma is suspected
Resuscitation is required
Early communication improves rescue coordination and outcomes.
Conclusion
Avalanche rescue does not end when the victim is uncovered. Correct first aid in the minutes following extrication is critical and often determines survival and long-term outcome.
Training, rehearsal, and calm execution are essential skills for anyone participating in winter mountain sports in avalanche terrain.
