Reaching More Users 

Earlier this month we were excited to share that our new mobile app is available. The app has already been downloaded by more than 20,000 users and we hope it makes it even easier to access the avalanche forecast. Head to https://app.avalanche.ca/ to download it. Note that the new app is not available from app stores. Apple users will need to download the app in Safari and Android users will need to download using Chrome. (This is for the initial download only.) The new app is fully optimized for mobile, and we’ve improved the MIN posting functionality and added the ability to search for a specific location. Please share any feedback with us here. 

Check out the latest news below. 

Pour la version française, cliquez ici.

In this issue:

Transceiver Interference Guidance
Avalanche Awareness Days
Smithers Snowmobile Association Family Day

SnowCrow Riders Annual Poker Ride
Upcoming Webinars
New Foundation Executive Director
Partner Profile: The North Face

Transceiver Interference Guidance

Did you know that electronic devices, metal objects, and magnets can interfere with avalanche transceivers if they are too close?

Avalanche Canada, in collaboration with the US National Avalanche Center, Colorado Avalanche Information Center, Utah Avalanche Center, Northwest Avalanche Center, and avalanche transceiver manufacturers Arva, BCA, Black Diamond/PIEPS, Mammut, and Ortovox developed practical guidance on how to avoid problems with interference. Remember to always wear your transceiver at least 20 cm away from anything electronic, metallic, or magnetic, including heated gloves. And always hold your transceiver at least 50 cm away from all electronics, metals, and magnets when in search mode. View the full guidance here. 

Avalanche Awareness Days

We'd like to thank all the organizations that hosted Avalanche Awareness Days events this winter. These are important grassroots events that celebrate our winter heritage and build awareness of backcountry safety. This winter, events were hosted by BC Parks, Parks Canada, snowmobile clubs, mountain schools, and ski resorts. Check out the schedule for a full list of events.

Smithers Snowmobile Association Family Day Avalanche Awareness

Join Avalanche Canada at the cabin in the Microwave Sled Area on Saturday, Feb. 18 from 10am - 2pm. Learn about avalanche safety, practice using an avalanche transceiver, and have fun. Learn more here.

CrowSnow Riders Annual Poker Run

Join the Avalanche Canada South Rockies Field Team at the CrowSnow Riders Annual Poker Run on Feb. 25. Learn more about this event here.

Upcoming Webinars

Our free online webinar series is a great way to learn about various aspects of avalanche safety. Here's what's on the schedule for the rest of the winter:

• Feb. 16: Beyond AST 1. Join us for a panel discussion on how to continue to progress as a backcountry user after obtaining your AST1. 
• March 2: Celebrating International Women’s Day. To celebrate, we’re hosting a panel discussion with women who chose careers in and around the avalanche industry. Hear this group of inspiring women share their journeys, challenges, rewards, and lessons related to careers in the snow. 
• March 23: Spring Conditions. Spring conditions can mean many different things depending on the weather, the snowpack, and the region. Join Yukon field team member Drew Nylen to learn how to gather the details you need to have safe backcountry adventures.

Welcome Foundation Executive Director

Jeff Storck recently joined the Avalanche Canada Foundation as the new executive director. Jeff is a community-focused, not-for-profit leader with over 20 years of experience in the charity and outdoor industry. Jeff brings his experience working at Tim Hortons Foundation Camps, Ronald McDonald House Charities, and as a Councillor for Kananaskis Country. Jeff is also a certified ACMG guide and an avid mountain athlete. Jeff lives in Calgary with his wife and two energetic young boys and spends his time backcountry skiing, rock climbing, biking, and trail running. In his role as executive director, Jeff is responsible for the organization's leadership and overall operations management.

Partner Profile: The North Face

Supporting Sponsor The North Face (TNF) has been a steadfast contributor to public avalanche safety in Canada for more than 20 years and has provided over $100,000 in funding during that time. TNF provides both cash funding and in-kind products, including uniform items for our field teams. Thank you to TNF for your continued commitment to Avalanche Canada!