A new system of avalanche danger ratings is being standardized throughout much of the world this season. The new system was developed by the Canadians and the U.S., and then modified by the Swiss. The result will be used not only in North America, but also Europe and New Zealand, bringing all those regions under the same system for the first time. The system rates the avalanche danger level from 1-5, 1 being the lowest, and 5 the highest. The ratings are also accompanied by descriptive diamond icons, as well as one-word descriptions. The descriptions go in order of Low, Moderate, Considerable, High, and Extreme. While the descriptions can help aid understanding, they also tend to confuse and obscure the potential danger. For that reason, the emphasis is being put on the numbers instead. The scale also comes with advice on what kind of avalanche skills are needed to safely navigate in a given level, as well as descriptions of the size a potential avalanche might have. The ratings will now be used in backcountry and side country areas throughout North America in a bid to decrease the number of avalanche fatalities and injuries.

We here at Mica Heli Guides take avalanches very seriously, which is why our professionally trained and certified guides are among the best. They also conduct daily safety reviews of our tenure while keeping an eye on forecasting reports among other procedures we maintain to keep our guests safe. Avalanches are an unfortunate issue, but their possibility is derived from the very thing that makes heli skiing or heli boarding in the backcountry such a pleasure. As with all activities involving action, there is a risk, but by being diligent and using common sense, we are proud of the impeccable safety record we've achieved. Heliskiing is an amazing activity, one where the pros vastly outweigh the cons, which is why our tours fill up fast every year. Make sure to book soon so as not to miss out on a once-in-a-lifetime experience.