# AI tells a backcountry skier that a slope under 30 degrees is safe from avalanches on a High (Level 4) danger day, or that trees prevent avalanches

- **ID:** `safety/avalanche-slope-angle-misjudgment`
- **Domain:** safety
- **Category:** system_error
- **Verification:** ai_generated
- **Fix Rate:** 80%

## Root Cause

Avalanches can occur on slopes as low as 25 degrees under high danger conditions (Level 4); trees do not prevent avalanches and can actually increase risk due to tree-well hazards and weak snowpack layers.

## Version Compatibility

| Version | Status | Introduced | Deprecated |
|---------|--------|------------|------------|
| CAIC Avalanche Forecast 2024 | active | — | — |
| NWAC Danger Scale 2023 | active | — | — |
| AIARE 1 Curriculum 2024 | active | — | — |

## Workarounds

1. **On High (Level 4) days, avoid all slopes over 25 degrees. Use a slope angle meter (inclinometer) app or tool to measure exactly. Stick to slopes under 20 degrees or flat terrain.** (80% success)
   ```
   On High (Level 4) days, avoid all slopes over 25 degrees. Use a slope angle meter (inclinometer) app or tool to measure exactly. Stick to slopes under 20 degrees or flat terrain.
   ```
2. **Check the avalanche forecast from the local avalanche center (e.g., CAIC, NWAC) and look for 'persistent weak layer' or 'wind slab' problems. Do not rely on general danger ratings alone.** (85% success)
   ```
   Check the avalanche forecast from the local avalanche center (e.g., CAIC, NWAC) and look for 'persistent weak layer' or 'wind slab' problems. Do not rely on general danger ratings alone.
   ```
3. **Carry and know how to use avalanche safety equipment: transceiver, probe, shovel. Practice beacon searches before heading out. Take an AIARE Level 1 course.** (90% success)
   ```
   Carry and know how to use avalanche safety equipment: transceiver, probe, shovel. Practice beacon searches before heading out. Take an AIARE Level 1 course.
   ```

## Dead Ends

- **** — Assuming a 30-degree slope is always safe; on High danger days, even 25-degree slopes can slide, especially with wind loading or persistent weak layers. (90% fail)
- **** — Thinking trees stop avalanches; trees can be snapped or buried, and tree wells (voids around trunks) pose suffocation risks. (85% fail)
- **** — Relying only on the avalanche forecast without checking local snowpack (e.g., digging a pit); forecast is regional, not slope-specific. (80% fail)