Dozens of Alaskans gathered at the Glen Alps Trailhead on Sunday for a special avalanche safety training workshop by Mary Gianotti. The event was designed to teach and refresh avalanche safety skills, and Gianotti emphasized the importance of practice.
“Practice like you have to use it all the time, and then travel like you will never need to,” Gianotti said. This approach helps build muscle memory and reduces stress in emergencies. The workshop was scheduled for January 26 but was postponed due to high winds and increased avalanche risk.
The Avalanche Center partnered with the Nordic Skiing Association of Anchorage to host the event. Staff at the event said they usually try to host groups annually. This helps teach avalanche safety skills to those who have never learned and provides a refresher for those who have.
Gianotti stressed that practicing avalanche safety skills in a low-stress environment is crucial. When an avalanche occurs, adrenaline and it’s often someone you care about who is affected. Being able to practice these skills and make them second nature is vital.
Moreover, avalanche safety training is essential for outdoor enthusiasts in Alaska. The state’s rugged terrain and abundant snowfall create a high-risk environment for avalanches. By providing avalanche safety training, Gianotti and her team are helping to reduce the risk of accidents and save lives.
In addition, the workshop provided attendees with hands-on experience and practical tips for navigating avalanche terrain. Participants learned how to assess avalanche risk, use safety equipment, and respond in emergencies.
The avalanche safety training workshop with Mary Gianotti was a valuable learning experience for attendees. By emphasizing practice and hands-on training, Gianotti helped participants develop the skills and confidence to stay safe in avalanche terrain.
News story originally published by Alaska’s News Source.
