Beacon Probe and Shovel Set being prepared for storage

Storing Your Avalanche Safety Gear: The Complete Guide

Spring is finally here and many of us have begun the transition to climbing with the warmer temps. As the snow melts and summer climbing opportunities call, it’s easy to forget about our winter gear.

Proper off-season storage of your avalanche rescue gear (beacons, shovels, probes, airbags, etc.) not only prolong the life of your gear, but ensures it functions when your life, or your partners life, depends on it.

This guide will walk you through the best practices for storing avalanche safety equipment over the summer. Keep reading to learn how to avoid common issues such as rust and corrosion, battery leakage, and other common off-season issues. Responsible gear care and storage is part of responsible mountain travel.

1. Why Summer Storage Matters

Avalanche safety gear is life-saving equipment. Like any critical tool, it demands regular maintenance and careful storage. Improper storage can lead to:

Battery leakage in beacons
Corrosion or damage to electronics and metal components
Degradation of airbags and mechanical parts
Mold or mildew in packs
Loss of calibration or sensor function

Taking time to store gear correctly reduces risk and can save you costly repairs—or worse, catastrophic failure in the field.

2. Transceivers (Avalanche Beacons)

Step-by-Step Summer Storage:

a. Remove the Batteries
One of the most important rules of summer storage: take the batteries out of your transceiver. Batteries left in over months of non-use can corrode and leak, damaging internal electronics.

Remove all batteries (don’t leave one behind!)
Check for any corrosion or leakage
Clean battery terminals gently with a dry cloth or small amount of isopropyl alcohol if needed

b. Store in a Dry, Cool Location
Avoid attics, garages, or damp basements. High humidity and temperature fluctuations can damage circuits. Instead:

Use a gear closet or storage bin in a climate-controlled room
Keep the beacon in its case or a small pouch for protection

c. Avoid Magnetic Fields and Interference
Don’t store your beacon near strong magnets, electronics, or wireless routers. Long-term exposure to magnetic fields could potentially affect calibration or sensor function.

d. Check Firmware Updates Before Storage (Optional)
If your transceiver has updatable firmware, now’s a great time to check the manufacturer’s site and update the device, so it’s ready in the fall.

3. Avalanche Probes

Cleaning and Storage:

a. Clean Thoroughly

Extend the probe and wipe down each section with a damp cloth
Remove any dirt, grit, or moisture from joints and locking mechanisms

b. Dry Completely
Make sure your probe is 100% dry before storage. Any moisture trapped in the locking system or tubing can cause corrosion.

c. Store Loosely Coiled
Do not leave your probe locked or tightly coiled. Instead:

Disassemble it fully
Store it loosely in a breathable bag or on a shelf

d. Inspect for Damage
Check the cable or cord inside for fraying, especially on older models. Test the locking system to ensure smooth deployment. If you see any dents or deformities, consider replacing it.

4. Avalanche Shovels

Care and Storage:

a. Clean and Dry

Wash off any dirt or mud from the blade and handle
Let all parts dry completely to avoid corrosion

b. Disassemble
If your shovel breaks down into multiple parts, take it apart. This prevents components from binding and keeps the locking mechanism from seizing.

c. Store in a Dry Place
Just like the probe, store your shovel in a climate-controlled room. Avoid damp environments where metal can rust.

d. Inspect for Cracks or Warping
Check both the blade and handle. If the locking mechanism is loose or unreliable, repair or replace it.

5. Avalanche Airbag Packs

Special Attention Required:

Airbag systems—whether electric (like the Alpride E1 or JetForce) or gas-canister powered—require special care due to their complexity and critical role.

a. Gas-Canister Packs

Remove the canister: Never store the pack with a charged canister installed.
Store the canister upright in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
Check expiration dates: Canisters often have service lifespans or refill intervals. Mark your calendar for next inspection or refill.
Inspect the trigger mechanism: Make sure no parts are bent or damaged.

b. Electric Packs (e.g., JetForce, Alpride E1)

Charge the battery fully before long-term storage.
Power off completely (not standby or sleep mode).
Store in a dry, cool area away from magnets or electronics.
Check for firmware updates during off-season downtime.

c. General Pack Maintenance

Empty the pack completely
Vacuum or wipe the interior
Check zippers, straps, and buckles
Inspect the airbag for any rips or punctures (deploy if needed for inspection, then re-pack following manufacturer instructions)
Store with all compartments unzipped or loosely packed to preserve fabric and shape

6. Clothing and Accessories

It’s not just technical gear that needs care. Your avalanche gear setup includes essentials like gloves, goggles, helmet, first-aid kit, and more.

a. Gloves and Layers

Wash technical layers according to their care instructions (often gentle cycle, no fabric softener)
Check for holes or worn seams
Store loosely folded in bins or drawers—not compressed

b. Goggles and Helmet

Clean goggle lenses gently with a microfiber cloth
Store goggles in a soft case or goggle bag
Inspect helmet for cracks or foam damage; replace if compromised

c. First Aid and Repair Kits

Restock any used supplies
Replace expired items
Store in a dry, accessible location for next season

7. Checklist: Off-Season Avalanche Gear Storage

Here’s a handy end-of-season checklist:

✅ Remove batteries from beacon
✅ Clean and dry beacon, store in pouch
✅ Clean and dry probe
✅ Disassemble and store probe loosely
✅ Inspect probe for damage
✅ Clean and dry shovel
✅ Disassemble and store shovel
✅ Remove airbag canister or power down battery
✅ Charge battery to full before storage (for electric systems)
✅ Clean airbag pack, inspect components
✅ Check zippers, buckles, and airbag condition
✅ Store gear in cool, dry, dark place
✅ Update firmware (transceiver, airbag if applicable)
✅ Restock first-aid and repair kits
✅ Launder clothing and inspect for wear

8. When to Replace Avalanche Gear

Use your summer storage time to evaluate whether any gear needs replacing. Here are a few guidelines:

Beacons: Replace every 5–7 years or after heavy impact. Check manufacturer recommendations.
Probes: Replace if there are dents, cable fray, or slow deployment.
Shovels: Replace if metal is bent or if locking mechanism is weak.
Airbags: Most systems have a lifespan—10 years is a common limit. Check your specific pack. Replace if the bag fabric or trigger system is compromised.

9. Digital Records & Inventory

Take photos of your gear, record serial numbers, and store them digitally. This is helpful for:

Insurance claims
Warranties and manufacturer recalls
Resale or donation
Seasonal re-checks

You can also create a gear inventory spreadsheet with last service dates, firmware version, and notes for the next season.

Conclusion

Proper summer storage of your avalanche gear isn’t just about extending its life—it’s about making sure your equipment is ready to perform when the mountains demand it. A few hours of maintenance and thoughtful storage now can save your life months down the road.

When the snow begins to fall again, you’ll thank yourself for having clean, reliable gear that’s ready to go. Store it smart, and you’ll hit the skintrack with confidence next winter.

Stay safe—and enjoy the summer.