ASC Rescue Techniques & Emergency Response 3

Question 1

Which beacon search method is most effective when a single rescuer is searching for a single buried victim?

Accepted Answer

Signal search → coarse search → fine search sequence

Answer

The three-phase sequence (signal, coarse, fine) is the standard single-rescuer protocol that systematically narrows to the victim's exact location.

Question 2

In a multiple-burial scenario, what is the recommended beacon search strategy?

Accepted Answer

Mark each located victim with a probe and pole before moving to the next signal

Answer

Marking each burial point with a probe and pole and then immediately moving to the next signal allows the team to locate all victims quickly before committing to excavation.

Question 3

What is the primary purpose of switching all rescuers' beacons to 'receive' mode upon entering the debris field?

Accepted Answer

To prevent beacon interference that could mask a buried victim's signal

Answer

Multiple transmitting beacons create signal interference (crosstalk) that can mask or distort a buried victim's signal, so rescuers switch to receive.

Question 4

How deep can an avalanche probe typically reach in standard rescue operations?

Accepted Answer

3 meters

Answer

Standard avalanche probes are 240–320 cm long, allowing searches to approximately 3 meters depth where most victims are found.

Question 5

What physical sensation indicates that a probe has struck a buried victim rather than a rock or debris?

Accepted Answer

A distinct hollow thud or slight give different from the firm resistance of rocks

Answer

A buried human body feels distinctly different — softer with slight give — compared to the hard, immovable resistance of rocks or ice.

(ASC) Avalanche Safety Certification Practice Test

(ASC) Avalanche Safety Certification Practice Test

ASC Rescue Techniques & Emergency Response 3