Who gets caught in avalanches?
What is the profile of a typical United States avalanche victim? According to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center, 89 percent of victims are men, most victims are between the ages of 20-29 (although the average victim age is 31), and three-quarters of victims are experienced backcountry recreationists (who are more likely to enter risky situations). Climbers, backcountry skiers, and snowmobilers are by far the most likely to be involved in avalanches. For a breakdown of activities in relation to avalanche deaths, see the national statistics compiled by the Colorado Avalanche Information Center. One of the major reasons for increasing avalanche fatalities is the boom in mountain industries and recreation. Skiing, hiking and other winter sports draw millions of people to the mountains. To support these activities, more roads, buildings, and towns are forced into avalanche prone areas. Backcountry recreationists are most likely to trigger avalanches as they cross hazardous terrain.
