Guidelines for Instruction in Avalanche Terrain.
The delivery of high-quality avalanche education is a tenet of the Canadian Avalanche Association (CAA). Guidelines for Instruction in Avalanche Terrain (GIAT) provides best-practice guidance and expectations for recreational and professional field-based avalanche course instruction in Canada by members of the CAA. These guidelines encompass all types of travel undertaken in or adjacent to avalanche terrain, including walking, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice climbing, skiing, snowboarding, mountaineering, automobile, snowcat driving, etc.
The intent of GIAT is twofold:
- To enable CAA members (Basic Avalanche Educators, Advanced Avalanche Educators, Avalanche Practitioners and Avalanche Professionals) to teach in and adjacent to avalanche terrain for the benefit of the Canadian public and workforce; and
- To provide clear guidance to support effective governance and operational decision-making.
GIAT is complemented by a comprehensive set of tools and supports for CAA members to deliver safe and effective avalanche education; and provides guidance for planners, directors, boards, managers, operators, and course providers who are involved in providing field-based avalanche education.
Video Resources
Guidelines for Instruction in Avalanche Terrain – Introductory Session – Professional Members Focus
Guidelines for Instruction in Avalanche Terrain – Introductory Session – Active Member Focus
GIAT Tools: Templates for ASP, ERP and Hazard Form – Active Member Focus
GIAT Tools: Templates for ASP, ERP and Hazard Form – Professional Member Focus
GIAT Info session Oct 5,2022
Templates
Avalanche Safety Plans (ASP) establish procedures to reduce avalanche risk to workers and clients (students) taking part in field-based avalanche education.
This Emergency Response Plan (ERP) can be used by organizations or individuals providing instruction in avalanche terrain. It addresses sections of GIAT which refer to ERP and outlines how to follow industry best practices.
A trip planning for instructing in avalanche terrain that highlights avalanche problems, education objectives, and risk mitigation strategies.
Terrain Catalogue Development
This template provides guidance for creating a terrain catalogue. It outlines the structure, minimum requirements, and cartographic standards for catalogue entries, and procedures for updating a catalogue.
Modèle de Plan de sécurité avalanche DETA
Plan d’intervention en cas d’urgence
Plan d’itinéraire AM DETA
Directives pour l’élaboration d’un catalogue de terrain
