Acceptance of Risk and Confidence Assessing Avalanche Terrain and Conditions: A Large Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic affected the ski industry globally, including limiting access to ski resorts and prompting more skiers and snowboarders to explore the backcountry. In this study, we quantified the willingness to take risks (risk propensity) and self-perceived ability to assess hazards in the backcountry and to explore correlations between these factors.

Methods

We based our study on a previously reported data set gathered under the supervision of our senior author, who collected anonymous responses to a 29-question online survey completed by 4792 self-identified backcountry skiers and snowboarders (aged ≥18 yr) in the United States and Canada. The survey was distributed primarily through regional avalanche centers, education providers, and skiing organizations. Pearson correlation coefficients and multivariable linear regression models were used to analyze associations among variables. More specifically, we examined the relationships among confidence in assessing avalanche terrain and willingness to take risks, level of avalanche training, years of experience, and days per season of backcountry skiing.

Results

We identified a positive correlation between confidence in assessing avalanche terrain and willingness to take risks, level of avalanche training, years of experience, and days per season of backcountry skiing. Female respondents demonstrated lower risk willingness and self-reported ability to assess avalanche risk compared to males. Over 30% of individuals lacking level 1 avalanche training expressed confidence in appraising complex terrain. Our findings demonstrated a positive correlation between greater risk propensity, formal avalanche education, and increasing confidence in assessing avalanche terrain. However, we also observed concerningly high confidence levels among skiers with minimal or no training.

Conclusions

Avalanche education should focus on aligning skiers’ confidence with their actual abilities to reduce overconfidence and enhance safety. We recommend that future research aim to include a more diverse sample, especially those less engaged in formal avalanche education.