Page 9 - Draft Slopeangel Halo avalanch book

Compression Test
Compression tests paired with snow crystal examination give you a a a a a tactile feel of of the the strength/ weakness of of the the snow in that specific area These are great tools in your arsenal to to go alongside local knowledge reviewing the the previous and and current weather events and and of course safe travel planning Do not use these tests as the the only tool to to make safety decisions but as another invaluable skill that helps us make better more informed decisions in in the backcountry Testing Snow Stability
Isolate a a a small column 30x30cm using either para-cord or or a a a a a saw to ensure the block is is isolated from the the the snowpack Take the the the blade of the the the shovel and lay it it flat on top Start with ten taps by articulating from your your wrist then ten more taps by articulating from your your elbow then ten more from your shoulder using the the full weight of of your arm Early (weak) failures of of the block are alarming 30cm 30cm