Conclusion

Decision Strategy.

The 3 principal factors must be studied and repeated in 3 successiveperiods:
- Before setting out (preparation)
- During the trip (analysis of the visible territory where progressing)
- In every'critical' zone, scrupulous evaluation using preparation and observation.

The decisions to be taken (set out, continue, skirt around, change route, abandon, ...) stem from the following procedure:
- Detect the danger (observations and knowledge)
- Analyse the danger, which comes down to deciding: yes or no
- If yes: maintain constant doubt and look to reduce the risk.

The Ten Golden Rules which reduce the risk.

.Intervals or distances between each participant in the group.
.Route choice.
.Speed and mode of progress (snow/weather conditions and technical level of the group).
.Visual and aural contact .
.Safe regrouping points, at frequent intervals.
.Avoid critical zones.
.Never move onto steeper slopes without observing and analysing the area below.
.Never ski above or below another skier.
.Keep to the single track when called for (poor visibility, obstacles, avalanche risks ...).
.Have adequate equipment.

. Humility in respect of natural environment.
. Modesty in respect of others and oneself.
. Curiosity, in always seeking to know snow better.
. Prudence: reflect, observer, never be certain, maintain constant doubt.