Avalanche Blaster Safety Toolkit – Simple Checklist

Before the Mission

☐ Terrain reviewed (start zones, runouts, terrain traps)

☐ Avalanche problem checked

☐ Weather, wind & visibility confirmed

☐ Fuse burn test completed (36 in ≈ 120 sec)

☐ Roles assigned (Blaster / Assistant / Overwatch)

☐ Escape routes reviewed

☐ Radios checked & communication plan confirmed

Required PPE

☐ Beacon ON & transmitting

☐ Shovel & probe

☐ Avalanche airbag (recommended)

☐ Helmet

☐ Eye protection

☐ Insulated explosives-handling gloves

☐ Warm, weather-appropriate clothing

☐ Radio + spare battery

Explosives Handling

☐ All charges inspected

☐ Detonators kept separate until assembly

☐ Fuse length set using daily burn rate

☐ Explosives protected from cold, shock, moisture

☐ Static electricity precautions taken (grounding, no synthetics)

☐ Follow SOP for detonating cord & suspended charges

In the Field

☐ Never work alone (min. 2 people)

☐ Safe spacing maintained

☐ Public cleared from hazard zone

☐ “Ready → Firing → Shot Fired” confirmed

☐ Weather monitored (graupel, wind, static buildup)

☐ No photos/videos of explosive assembly

Misfire Procedure

☐ STOP – Do not approach

☐ Radio: “Misfire — hold position”

☐ Wait a full 1 hour

☐ Document location & fuse details

☐ Notify supervisor

☐ Add site to spring retrieval list

Emergency Actions

☐ If injured → Scene safe → Call for help → First aid

☐ If buried → Begin beacon search immediately

☐ If fatality → Secure scene & notify command/OSHA/ATF

End-of-Day

☐ All explosives accounted for

☐ Misfires logged & reported

☐ Team debrief completed

☐ Safety notes updated

Core Principles

☐ Safety first — speed second

☐ Static electricity is real: manage it

☐ Every charge must be accounted for

☐ Respect terrain, explosives, weather, and each other