SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/ski-avalanche-trailhead-check

When does a group do its beacon check?

Before leaving the trailhead.

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  1. Before leaving the trailhead ✔
  2. At the summit
  3. After lunch

Why: A transceiver check makes sure everyone's beacon is on and working. Each person sends while the others search, and readings should shrink as they get closer.

Huh, didn't know that: Avalanche.org says groups can sometimes do the check from more than 60 meters apart to test beacon range.

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References

Answer: Before leaving the trailhead. A transceiver check makes sure everyone's beacon is on and working. Each person sends while the others search, and readings should shrink as they get closer.

  1. Avalanche.org: Transceiver Check avalanche.org/avalanche-encyclopedia/travel-advice/transceiver-check
    A trailhead protocol for ensuring that everyone's beacon is turned on and functioning.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. Avalanche.org: Transceiver Check avalanche.org/avalanche-encyclopedia/travel-advice/transceiver-check
    Before leaving the trailhead
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  3. Avalanche.org: Transceiver Check avalanche.org/avalanche-encyclopedia/travel-advice/transceiver-check
    You can occasionally conduct this check from more than 60 meters apart to test the range of your transceivers.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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