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Vorarlberg - english · Avalanche Warning Service · Responsibilities and services
Security & Domestic - Avalanche Warning Service
Training and research
Automatic measuring station at the Kreuzjoch/Schruns.
Training:
At the start of each winter season, basic and advanced training courses are organised and run by the Office of the State Government of Vorarlberg or the Avalanche Warning Service for members of the local avalanche commissions. Additional regular participants in these courses, which last several days, include members of the Alpine Constabulary, mountain rescue, customs, safety personnel at ski lift companies, torrent and avalanche defence structure employees, mayors and council representatives etc. As well as organisational and legal aspects, the basic theory of assessing avalanche generation and hazard is taught, and backed up with practical field work. It also serves as a forum for exchanging important experiences and discussing problems. In the last 10 years it has been possible to give almost 500 people highly specific basic and advanced training through this scheme. These people go on to provide a significant contribution towards the safety of local residents and visitors to our region.
Conferences, developments and international research:
The Vorarlberg Avalanche Warning Service also plays a key role in the activities of the Austrian and European Avalanche Warning Services, and takes part in a variety of conferences. Even though the organisation’s own structure is decentralised and economical, with no research department of its own, it is still able to profit continually from the large institutions, collecting new information and using it in day-to-day practice. As well as this, contact with nearby Avalanche Warning Services is maintained, with whom crucial information can be exchanged.
Torrent and avalanche defence structures:
Another very important contribution towards avalanche protection is provided by the technical forestry torrent and avalanche defence structure service. This public service office, which is divided into sections and construction management units by area (Vorarlberg; or Bregenz and Bludenz), has the main basic responsibilities with regard to avalanche protection:
- Permanent avalanche protection by constructing avalanche fracture zones, paths and run-out zones
- Keeping a register of avalanches
- Drawing up plans of hazard zones
- Assessing buildings in endangered areas