Avalanche Airbags
Teton County Fire Rescue (TCFR) has historically put forth the effort to utilize our air refilling equipment in the reservicing of avalanche airbags. This was a community service we offered with the purpose to mitigate risks in the backcountry for our community members should they be caught in an avalanche and equipped with an airbag.
Due to multiple factors, we will no longer be able to provide this service to the community. Technology changes are occurring in the manufacturing of airbags leading to varying systems and varying methods or reservicing. In addition, we often see used equipment coming in to be reserviced with no know history of the equipment. Lastly, our personnel lack the modern training, expertise and qualifications to reservice the varying equipment. These factors combined, create too many unknowns and potential liability.
While no technology can take the place of good decision making, knowing the conditions and identifying hazards that exist in the backcountry, TCFR encourages all backcountry users to take an approved Avalanche Safety Course. There are many available in our region. Avalanche Education – Bridger-Teton Avalanche Center
Additional resources are available through the manufacturers of avalanche airbags:
Product assistance and guides – ORTOVOX Help Center Snow,
Ski & Avalanche Safety Gear: Shovels & More | Black Diamond Store Locator |
December 31, 2024.