National Ski Patrol has been providing avalanche education to ski patrollers and other search and rescue personnel since 1957, making it one of the oldest and most experienced avalanche education associations in North America. NSP offers avalanche education for all backcountry enthusiasts, from the first-time recreationalist to search and rescue professionals.

Most regions where avalanches are an issue have dedicated avalanche information centers. These organizations provide vital details on snowpack, mountain weather, and avalanche observations that are crucial for planning a backcountry excursion. Remember, if there's enough snow to ride, there's enough snow to slide. Find your local avalanche information center by selecting your region on the map at avalanche.org.

This program, in collaboration with the Utah Avalanche Center, Friends of CAIC, and RECCO, is designed to increase basic avalanche awareness in the skiing public by stressing five steps people should take before they enter avalanche-prone terrain.

Patrick Stanton, Avalanche Program Director

Brad Acker, Pacific Northwest Division
Brian Ballard, Rocky Mountain Division
Chuck Boyd, Eastern Division
Barry Bruno, Alaska Division
Keith Church, Far West Division
Craig Olsen, Intermountain Division
Steve Porcella, Northern Division