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-How It Works-
Two Designs, Same Result
The
result? Ending up on top of the snow.
When you decide to activate
the ABS all you do is pull the release handle. The
system then fills the bag(s) with a nitrogen/air mixture in approximately 2
seconds. At
this point the added volume provided causes you to be pushed to
the top. As long as you are moving with the snow simple physics keep you "afloat" The principal is simple and
logical. 15 years of use have shown
it to be sound. The ABS and it's functionality are not theory but
reality. Real world use, studies
and tests have
documented it's success.
With
a 98% survival rate the ABS is
proven to be the most effective avalanche
rescue device available on
the market today.
-Why it Works-
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An avalanche consists of different particles of snow.
Those particles move underneath each body and push it to the surface by rotating until the
avalanche slows down. This and direction changes of the avalanche are reasons why approximately half of all avalanche victims end up on top of the avalanche.
This is where you want to be. There is a 95% survival rate of
non-buried victims.
.... others die in the avalanche.
A completely different scenario exists for those who do
not end up on the surface of the avalanche. Once the avalanche slows down, rotation and
lifting abilities also slow down. The victim cannot reach the surface anymore. In most cases this burial is deadly. |
With the ABS you have
5
cubic ft more volume ...
Once activated, the ABS equalizes the volume and
density of the victim relative to the surrounding snow.
... and you are on top within
seconds.
As with a life vest in the water, the victim floats on
the surface of the avalanche. The added volume of 5 cubic ft has been
calculated to be needed for cold, dry and loose snow. If the snow is denser, wetter and
heavier less volume is needed. It is impossible to get pulled back into
the snow mass. |
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The ABS has proven its worth in many tests
already. However, the real proof is that an increasing number of avalanche victims owe their lives to the use of the ABS.
Click here to see the proof
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The single airbag:
The
Original System. More economical packs for those who require minimal storage. Great for snowmachiners.
All components of the Mono System are stored together in a plastic base and the 5 cubic ft
airbag is fastened to this base. The activation occurs with
a "bowden" pulley. A strongly tensioned spring is used to
arm the system, Once the ring is pulled the cartridge is punctured and
the bag fills within 2 seconds. Exterior is of tight weave Nylon |
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The
dual airbag: Two 2.5 cubic ft airbags stored in the side pockets
of a backpack leave room in the middle of the pack for personal belongings. Handling and
comfort are similar to mountaineering packs used by backcountry skiers.
The
Dual System is activated with air pressure. The detachable trigger handle contains a
pressure capsule which activates the inflation cartridge when the
user pulls the handle.
Both complete systems, including backpacks
have been tested according to the guidelines for personal safety equipment by the
TÜV and are stamped with the CE decal. Both the Dual and mono
systems provide the same level of protection to the wearer. Each and every ABS
undergoes detailed inspection and is fully tested before leaving the
factory.
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The ABS-Avalanche Airbag System has been recommended by
many organizations such as:
- IKAR - International Organization for Alpine
Rescue
- Bavarian Ski Patrol
- Austrian Mountain Rescue
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- Austrian Board of Trustees for Alpine Safety
- Austrian Alpine Club
- German Alpine Club
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