An avalanche transceiver is an electronic device that allows avalanche victims to be located. This device sends a signal when switched on and should be kept on when venturing off piste. If somebody is buried by an avalanche, group members on the surface can switch their devices to Signal Receive mode. The signal and hence the victim can thus be located over a large area.
The avalanche transceiver, probe and shovel are part of the standard safety equipment of ski tourers and freeriders or other snow sport enthusiasts who venture off piste.

Victims can only be rescued within a reasonable time if the rescuers are also equipped with a shovel and probe, in addition to the avalanche transceiver. If the approximate location of the victim is initially determined using the avalanche transceiver, the probe is used to determine the precise location within the avalanche area. It is made up of several parts that can be put together quickly in an emergency. A probe typically measures between 2 and 4 meters in length and weighs about 200 grams.

The purpose of an avalanche shovel is to dig out a buried person. Without such a shovel, it is almost impossible to dig someone out of an avalanche, because avalanche snow is very dense and is as hard as concrete. For example, clearing the snow of somebody buried 1 meter below the snow will take approx. 10 minutes with a shovel. Without a shovel it can take up to 1 hour.

All ABS® backpacks are equipped with their own emergency compartment or other mechanisms to conveniently store a probe and shovel for instant access in the event of an avalanche. Because you can only help your buddies if you are not buried yourself.

A first-aid kit must always be part of the equipment in your backpack.

These helmets provide TÜV-certified head protection and are recommended for all freeriders and ski tourers.

The Recco system is an avalanche rescue system that uses passive reflectors and active search devices. The reflectors require no power supply and can therefore be inexpensively included in winter sports apparel and equipment. Unlike the existing avalanche transceivers, only mountain rescue services equipped with Recco search devices can systematically search for avalanche victims. Although the response times of rescue teams are becoming increasingly shorter, the search system must first be brought to the avalanche site. Today, most avalanche rescue services in major ski resorts in the Alps are equipped with RECCO detectors.