Make sure you have the right equipment for winter conditions and that your backpack weight is fit for purpose and tour duration. For avalanche rescue, an avalanche beacon, shovel and probe are standard equipment as well as a first-aid kit, bivouac sack and mobile phone and personal location beacon (PLB). An airbag system increases the chances of survival however it can provide a false sense of security. We recommend 3 antenna avalanche beacons and metal avalanche shovels. For ice conditions crampons and ski/split crampons, ice axes / whippets are prudent. Packing both is never a bad idea. Assuming you know how to use them. Important point: Even though the technical avalanche emergency equipment is being improved continuously, responding efficiently and safely in the case of emergency (coordination, emergency call, probing, shovelling, first aid) must be trained and practiced.