"Relating to Avalanche Awareness Month."

Alaska is avalanche country. Each year Alaska loses more people to avalanches than any other state, regardless of population. During the last four winters alone, 31 Alaskans have died in avalanches. This winter, school buses on Thane road in Juneau were hit two times by avalanche dust clouds. It is chilling to think of the possible outcomes. While often little can be done to prevent the occurrence of an avalanche, much can be done to prevent the loss of life from avalanches.

Senate concurrent Resolution 4 would proclaim November 2003 as Avalanche Awareness Month. This proclamation would raise public awareness of the hazards associated with avalanches, and the opportunities to participate in avalanche safety training at the beginning of the winter recreational season. It is hoped that public participation in avalanche safety programs will be increased and that this increased participation will result in saved lives during the winter.

Last Updated: 03/10/2003

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