Henry’s Avalanche Talk launches integrated training program from the UK to the Alps

For anyone considering skiing or snowboarding off-piste this winter, a full program of snow and avalanche training is now available from Henry’s Avalanche Talk (HAT). There’s several modules to the program, including two talk programs around the UK (The Essentials and In Depth), UK transceiver training and on-snow courses based in Val d’Isère, France.

Because 90% of avalanche accidents are triggered by the victim, or a person in their group, the talks and on-snow courses focus on the tactical elements of skiing off-piste and the prevention of these incidents. The transceiver training sessions, both in the UK and in the Alps, then help to ensure everyone in the group can locate avalanche victims quickly if the unthinkable does happen.

The ‘HAT’ journey now means there’s a tangible pathway for skiers and snowboarders who are already spending time off-piste and in the backcountry, or those considering doing so for the first time, to educate themselves so they have a better understand of how to stay safe and deal with the mountain environment autonomously.

Founder of HAT, Henry Schniewind, said: “At HAT we want to help you have more fun by being safer for successful off-piste adventures with or without a professional. Our driving message for this winter is to understand the importance of applying our knowledge – we can learn all the theory, but it’s human nature to become complacent and we need to build strategies to overcome that.”