Avalanche Safety: Gear for the High Expedition

Essential Technology for the Mount Everest Summit Push

Managing Objective Risk

The Mount Everest summit is prone to avalanches, particularly in the Khumbu Icefall. For a modern Mount Everest expedition, carrying and knowing how to use avalanche safety gear is a standard requirement.

The Avalanche Transceiver

Every climber on the Mount Everest summit route wears a transceiver. This device sends a signal that allows others to find you if you are buried. It is the first line of defense in high-altitude Everest trekking peaks.

Avalanche beacon and probe gear set
Probes and Shovels

While heavy, these are essential for the high camps. Mount Everest expedition teams use them to secure tents and to perform rescues if the snow becomes unstable after a storm.

Recco Reflectors

Many high-end Everest trekking jackets come with built-in Recco reflectors. These allow professional rescue teams to locate climbers from a helicopter using advanced radar technology.

Never Climb Alone

Gear is only effective if you have a team to use it. Success on the Mount Everest summit is built on collective safety and preparation.