Buried Alive

February 24th, 2007 · No Comments

The moderate slide that happened today in Silverado should remind all of us that skiing within the terrain does not mean that you are one hundred percent safe from being buried in a slide. Luckily no one was caught in today’s slide and ski patrol where they’re within minuets, nor was anyone badly buried last year when most of Headwall slid late in the afternoon after it had been bombed extensively and ski on all day. It just goes to show you that, anything can happen. Skiing with a beacon and a buddy who knows how to use one is always your best bet. Here is some information that might help keep you safe out there.
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Read more on stories of survival, avalanche facts and information as well as products that are designed to save your life.

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Dale Atkins Interviews Avalanche Survivor and Avalung User Mike Morrisey

Summary

Morrisey was heli skiing when he and five others in his party were caught in a sizable avalanche. Morrisey survived a significant burial. Two buried men died. Morrisey credits his AvaLung with his survival. It is my opinion the AvaLung made a critical contribution to his survival.

Burial Details Burial Time

Morrisey stated that he and friends determined his burial time at about 38 minutes. (Morrisey reported the heli-ski company thought his burial time to be 20 to 30 minutes.) Burial Depth Morrisey’s head was buried about 4 feet deep. Burial Position An upright, sitting position with his left hand above his head. Rescue Found by transceiver search. Morrisey does not remember hearing rescuers. He remembers opening his eyes to daylight and rescuers.

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