Using Terrain to Reduce Your Risk offers a list of techniques that you can employ to effectively manage your group in the backcountry.

Choose a smaller slope

If there is uncertainty surrounding avalanche conditions, consider reducing exposure and consequence by choosing a smaller slope with an open runout (free of trees, rocks, or other terrain traps). Smaller slopes mean smaller avalanches, and an open, smooth transition means any avalanche is less likely to injure or bury you.

One at a time — Minimize number exposed

When traveling on, under, or across steep terrain, limit exposure to one person at a time. Establish a communication plan to ensure you have visual and/or verbal contact with each other, and agree to regroup in a location free from avalanche hazard before spacing out. When possible, choose high ground out of the flow of avalanches. Many have escaped harm by identifying true safe zones and regrouping on higher ground. Consider using radios to help maintain verbal contact in bigger terrain where spacing increases.

Watch anyone exposed

Limiting exposure to one person at a time extends to situations where a group member might fall, lose a ski, or get a snowmobile stuck. Let them dig themselves out to avoid exposing more members of the group to avalanche hazard.

Don't stop in the avalanche path

Identify potential avalanche paths and avoid stopping where you will be exposed. Plan ahead to find a safe place to stop, and move to safer terrain if you find yourself stopped in an exposed area. Regroup away from the avalanche hazard – locate terrain out of the runout zone and far enough away from avalanche slopes to ensure you are not exposed when regrouping. Be willing to move to a safer location if you become aware of your exposure while regrouped.

If your partner is stuck on the avalanche slope, let them dig themselves out

Avoid additional riders on the slope and the increased exposure to group members. Keep eyes on the exposed rider until they have successfully extricated themselves.

Avoid travel above or below other groups

It is not uncommon for multiple groups to travel in the same area at the same time. When possible, communicate with other parties to share your plans and expectations. Wait for the slopes above or below your route to be clear of other parties prior to crossing or entering so that you can avoid traveling above or below other groups.

Choose high ground out of the flow of the avalanche

Choose high ground out of the flow of the avalanche – control your position in the terrain. Routes that follow ridges and higher ground are inherently lower risk than routes lower in the terrain.