Emergency Procedures
This educational guide explains how to respond to common emergencies in Niseko and other mountain environments — including injuries, tree‑well incidents, getting lost, low‑visibility situations and gate‑area accidents.
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Avalanche Rescue — Critical First Minutes
If someone is buried in an avalanche, the first 5 –10 minutes are crucial. Survival rates drop rapidly after that. This is a simplified guide for immediate action.
1. Ensure Scene Safety
- Stop and assess: is the slope still unstable?
- Move to a safe edge if necessary before starting rescue.
2. Visual Search
- Look for clues: gear, gloves, board/skis, tracks entering but not exiting.
- Shout for reactions if there is any chance the person is partially buried.
3. Beacon Search
- All rescuers switch beacons to search mode.
- One person leads the search; others stay spread out but close enough to help.
- Follow the signal until you reach the strongest reading (fine search).
4. Probing
- Probe systematically in a grid pattern if unsure (perpendicular with the surface).
- When the probe hits something soft/solid, leave it in place — this marks your digging point.
5. Strategic Shoveling
- Start digging downslope from the probe, not directly on top.
- Create a ramp to reach the buried person gently.
- If multiple rescuers: form a “V” pattern and rotate to avoid exhaustion.
One Rescuer vs Multiple Rescuers
- Solo rescuer: Move quickly, focus on beacon → probe → dig. Call patrol only after confirming location unless you have signal.
- Multiple rescuers: One person leads beacon search, others prepare probe and shovel. Rotate during digging.
*This is a simplified guide. Proper avalanche rescue training is essential.
If Someone Is Injured
- Stop in a safe, visible location away from steep drop-offs.
- Mark the area so others slow down.
- Call ski patrol immediately and describe the injury clearly.
- Give precise location: nearest lift, piste number, nearby signs or landmarks.
- Keep the person warm and still until help arrives.
If Someone Falls Into a Tree Well
- Approach carefully from above to avoid collapsing more snow onto them.
- Do not pull on limbs — you may worsen their position.
- Clear snow around their face first to open airway.
- Communicate constantly if they’re conscious.
- Call ski patrol immediately — tree wells are time‑critical situations.
If You Get Lost or Separated
- Stop moving — don’t descend blindly in low visibility.
- Move to a visible area if possible.
- Call ski patrol and give your last known location.
- Share battery-saving tips: low-power mode, screen dimming.
Gate‑Area Emergencies
- Ask for help
- Follow patroller instructions immediately — they manage avalanche terrain risk.
- Do not attempt to self‑rescue in hazardous or unstable terrain.
- Move to safe zones when told — avoid stopping in gullies or near steep slopes.
- Ensure your group stays together and accounted for.
Low Visibility or Whiteout Conditions
- Slow down and follow piste markers — never rely on tracks.
- Avoid tree areas if visibility is near zero.
- Use low‑light or clear lenses for better contrast.
Communication & Preparation
- Share meeting points with your group at the start of the day.
- Carry a charged phone — cold reduces battery life.
- Radios are extremely useful in Niseko’s forests and storms.
- Know the emergency number for the resort you’re in.
This page provides general guidance only. Real-world emergencies demand calm judgment and, whenever possible, assistance from trained professionals and ski patrol. Regardless of how cautious you are, accidents can still happen — that’s why it’s always wise to carry private mountain/rescue insurance that covers medical expenses and rescue costs. It’s not about taking more risks; it’s about being prepared if help is needed.