Elements and Performance Criteria
- Determine and manage risks for alpine activities in snow conditions.
- Determine and plan for the impacts of sudden weather changes on the wellbeing of self and participants.
- Identify and plan for contingency food and water supplies to sustain physical wellbeing of self and participants in winter alpine conditions.
- Select a line of travel which reduces exposure to avalanches and other hazards associated with alpine terrain and weather conditions.
- Determine ways to prevent hypothermia and frostbite and to identify signs and symptoms.
- Select and carry equipment for alpine snow conditions.
- Select and carry additional clothing to account for changing weather conditions.
- Select and carry contingency food supplies, resources and equipment for use in the event of activity delays or emergencies.
- Waterproof and pack food, clothing, and other resources to allow for quick access during activity.
- Negotiate snow conditions and respond to environmental conditions.
- Engage in activities and travel at a pace that conserves energy and reduces exposure to hypothermia.
- Monitor weather conditions, own response and utilise clothing to prevent exposure.
- Provide first aid in response to cases of hypothermia and frostbite.
- Manage a group to move locations in limited visibility during a snowstorm.
- Construct and manage tents and emergency shelters.
- Select site accounting for terrain, weather and snow conditions.
- Erect tents or construct emergency snow shelters according to conditions and to maintain stability over extended periods of time.
- Monitor and manage safety of tents and emergency shelter for duration of use, clear snow, and adjust to account for changing weather conditions.
- Manage human waste and environmental impacts of the campsite for the duration of the trip.