A tree hole is a void created around the base of a tree covered in heavy snow. When low branches do not allow snow to accumulate near the tree but push it away, then a void or air gap tends to be created around the tree. This creates a weakness which, with pressure from above, like that of a skier passing over it, can collapse, causing the skier to fall into a death trap.
This article discusses how you could escape if this ever happens to you, based on the experience of one who survived this type of accident, Craig McNeil. You must understand, however, that this is a very dangerous situation to be in and that the chances of survival are slim without outside help.
Steps
Step 1. Understand what will happen
Typically, the skier will fall head forward into the hole created. It means that your head and arms will go straight into the crater and the skis will be the last thing above you. Snow will begin to fall around you as you fall, crushing you against the tree or other snow in the hole.
The worst threat is suffocation, caused by the snow packed around you. Another danger is the possibility of hitting the tree and causing a head injury or other injuries
Step 2. Don't panic
Making quick movements and trying to fight will only make the situation worse. It is important to calm down and start thinking as clearly as possible about how to get out.
Remember that every slightest movement, jolt, jerk, effort and gesture of anger will only serve to compact the snow around you even more. Save your strength and let rational thinking take control
Step 3. Grab whatever part of the tree you can or hug it
As you fall, do everything you can to stop as soon as possible. Do this by hooking onto branches or any other part of the tree to try to stabilize yourself and not fall deeper. Hold on tight
Step 4. Look for an air pocket that you can gently tuck your head into
Breathe. Remember that every movement, even if it's a little bit, will make the snow pack even more.
Step 5. Make a decision
At this point, consider whether you have the strength or even the opportunity to get yourself out of that situation. If you don't have them, keep focusing on creating vents in the snow and wait for help. Use a rocking method to make space in the snow and have more air; even your body heat could help compact the snow around you, it could help pull you up and get out. If you think you can make it out on your own, consider the following method based on how Craig McNeil managed to get out of a tree hole:
- Turn around as slowly as possible and try to stand straight.
- Slowly, climb the tree. It will be a long and difficult thing. There is no guarantee of success, but keep believing that you will succeed and remember that there are people who have escaped and saved themselves from similar situations.
Step 6. Move far away from the hole when you reach the top
Step 7. Signal for help if you can't move once you get out
You will probably be very tired, store your energy as best you can and use the snow as a cover to keep warm.
Step 8. Always ski far away from trees when extreme off-piste
It is perfectly possible to avoid falling into a tree hole, just stay away from trees in places where the snow is very deep.
Advice
- Always keep an eye on each other.
- Always ski with rescue equipment when you go off-piste or ski touring.
- Always ski with at least one other person, preferably a connoisseur of the area and basic rescue techniques.
- It is recommended not to put your hands in the poles straps when going off piste on the slopes, trapped skiers have had a lot of difficulty in freeing their hands from the poles.
Warnings
- As with any other article that tries to explain how to save yourself, this is a guide only. Each rescue situation is different and with its conditions, weather, manner of falls and injuries, etc. The best advice is to be prepared and avoid getting into similar situations, behaving cautiously and having understood the characteristics and dangers of the area FIRST.
- Often other skiers will not notice that you are missing, unless they were close to you. This can make it very difficult for anyone to know where you fell.
- Never go off-piste or ski tour alone. It is too dangerous to be without a friend and without a guide.
- Skiing in off-the-beaten-path places with deep snow and trees is dangerous, period. You need to know what you are going to do before you put yourself in danger.
- Realize that prevention is better than cure: when 10 volunteers were placed in a simulated tree-mouth situation and told to get out of it on their own, no one was able to cope.
