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Show 6. Locate the spot where the victim was last observed on the surface. Mark the " last- seen point" so that it cannot be obliterated by wind or snowfall. From this point downhill, the first party makes a hasty search of the slide surface for the victim or any part of his equipment. 7. If any indication of the victim is found, begin to probe in the vicinity. If no indication is found, begin to probe in likely locations. These are obstructions in the slide path such as trees, boulders or transitions, also the tip and edges of the slide. A human body is bulky and all other things being equal, is apt to be thrown toward the surface or the sides. 8. If the victim is found, commence first aid. Unless danger of further avalanches is acute, the first party should not attempt to move the victim out of the area. More important is to treat for shock and suffocation. Note: If no eyewitness of the accident is available, omit first half Step 6. The first party must work at maximum speed. Follow- up 1. In a well- organized area, the follow- up party can start in half an hour. It must start within an hour. It goes completely equipped for extended rescue operations with everything except food. It may be dispatched in groups. The priority of equipment is: probes, shovels, miscellaneous equipment such as toboggans and flashlights. 2. The snow ranger will lead this party after notifying County Sheriff or designated disaster authority. It includes every able- bodied person available within the time limit. People not physically qualified for the exhausting work of rescue should not be taken. They can play their part by preparing and transporting supplies. 3. In the 30- 60 minutes at his disposal, the snow ranger organizes and equips the follow- up party, notifies authorities outside the area of the accident and possible need for further help, obtains, if possible, correct name or names of the victims, appoints a leader to take charge of any further reinforcements and equipment. 4. If the first party has been unsuccessful, the follow- up party begins systematic probing of the slide, beginning at the tip and working up toward the last- seen point ( Figure 32). Probers are spaced shoulder to shoulder and probe every square foot. If a last- seen point for the victim is known, a special group probes any sections of the strip from this point downhill left by the first party. - 88 - |