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Show TABLE I I Likely Point Estimated Relative Probability of Location Search Time Search Time of Location Stand of Firs 1/ 2 hour 25% 20% Bend 1/ 2 hour 25% 20% Final Deposition 1 hour 50% 60% In practice the site commander is not apt to indulge in mathematical analysis during the coarse of an actual rescue. Probability of the victim's location is a subjective estimate at best, and the first guesses about required search time may be little better. But prior consideration of these probability relations can help him to gain confidence in the intuitive benefits of long experience with avalanche behavior. 2.5 The Avalanche Dog Despite all attempts to optimize the process, probing remains a relatively slow method of recovery. Alternatives must be found. In Europe, the most workable innovation is the use of dogs which are able to detect the scent of buried victims. According to Swiss statistics, the " Lawinenhund"- avalanche dog-- is very effective. In the period 1945 to 1962, dogs participated in 170 rescues. Of these, 20 were live rescues, 120 were dead rescues, and in 30 cases the dogs failed to locate the victims. The large number of dead rescues of course is no reflection on the ability of the dogs. Rather, it is another indication of the hazard of being caught in an avalanche. Only 19% of all persons completely buried in an avalanche survive, no matter what means are used to locate them. Avalanche dogs are used extensively throughout the Alps. The system is most highly organized in Switzerland, where call to a central telephone number similar to that for police or fire will bring the nearest avalanche dog to the scene of the accident. Dogs and trainers are periodically tested and classified according to degree of proficiency and experience. With the present growth in North American winter recreation and its concomitant avalanche hazard, a similar system would be desirable in the United States. Sporadic interest has been generated for avalanche dog training, but no organization has yet been established to provide trained dogs with the levels of proficiency found in the best European animals. Training the avalanche dog is a continuing task. Search training must be pursued both summer and winter to keep the dog at the peak of his efficiency. The dog must be thoroughly accustomed to working in snow and winter weather. To be really useful as a rescue tool, he must be kept where he can be brought quickly to avalanche accident sites. 45 |