BCA Float E2-PACKS E2 Airbag User Manual

: June 9, 2024
: bca

BCA Float E2-PACKS E2 Airbag

SUMMARY OF LED STATUSES

FLOAT E2 AIRBAG SYSTEM

Compressor Pocket
Trigger
LCD display (see section 5)
Super capacitors
2x AA Battery compartment
(batteries not included)
USB-C Port
(cable included)
ON/OFF switch
3x LED (see section 4)
Trigger cable
Deflation knob
Air inlet
Compressor case and wheel
Deflation button cover
Pressure relief valve (see section 6)

WARNING

Carefully read and follow all the instructions. Failure to follow these instructions and warnings may result in death or serious personal injury.

Before taking the Float E2 Airbag into the field, inspect all points described in this user manual and inspect the condition of the system’s safety straps and fastenings.
Avalanches are always life threatening, no matter what equipment is deployed.
The intended and reasonably foreseeable use of this backpack is solely: skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing. It cannot be used in water.
The purpose of the Float E2 Airbag system is to reduce the likelihood of burial during an avalanche. The Float E2 Airbag system cannot prevent avalanches from occurring. Total burial may still occur during use of an avalanche backpack.
You must not take more risks simply because you are wearing a Float E2 Airbag system. A hazard is best avoided by avoiding hazardous situations.
The Float E2 Airbag system does not replace conventional avalanche rescue equipment: transceivers, shovels and probes should always be taken on backcountry tours.
Backcountry Access Inc. and Alpride SA cannot be held responsible for injuries caused by an avalanche involving its Float E2 Airbag system.
The waist belt and leg strap must be worn to ensure the backpack stays in its intended position in the event of an avalanche.
To reduce the likelihood of inadvertent inflation, store the trigger handle zipped in the shoulder strap when you or others could be harmed by the system such as when on chairlifts, gondolas, helicopters, buses, trains, cars, etc.
Fold the airbag according to the instructions. Improper folding may prevent proper opening of the airbag, can lead to malfunctioning, and can damage the backpack.
When packing the airbag, make sure that nothing can tear or damage the airbag, inflator system and its fabric cover. Also make sure that the airbag can open up freely.
Only the airbag and compressor are meant to be stored in the airbag compartment and compressor pocket. Never store any additional items in these compartments; items may prevent the airbag from deploying.
Do not submerge the system in water.
The Float E2 Airbag system must stay clean at all times. In case of a soiled inflator system, the function of the airbag system is not guaranteed.
Never attempt to alter or repair the system. Any unauthorized work or alterations will void the warranty.
Practice deploying the airbag before the new season starts, at least once a year, and after the backpack has been exposed to moisture / wet weather. Check its condition, allow it to dry and only when it is completely dry fold it back together again. Practicing deploying the airbag will give you a feel for the amount of force you need to apply to the trigger. In the event of a real avalanche, you will then be able to deploy it correctly and intuitively. Be careful not to endanger other people when practicing the activation of the airbag.
Do not use the Float E2 Airbag with unauthorized carrying systems (backpack, vest, etc.).
When the Float E2 Airbag system is on or off, it has no influence on avalanche beacons. When it is inflating it could interfere with beacons.
Avalanche beacons are very sensitive to electrical and magnetic influences. To mitigate any interference, carry the beacon on the front side of your body to increase the distance between the Float E2 compressor and the beacon.
When not in use, keep the system in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Except as set forth below, children must not use or play with the Float E2 Airbag.
The Float E2 Airbag system may be used by children over the age of 8, persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or persons with a lack of experience and knowledge only if they (1) clearly understand the hazards involved in entering avalanche terrain after reading this manual, (2) use the Float E2 Airbag system under direct supervision, and (3) are provided complete and accurate instruction concerning safe and proper use of the Float E2 Airbag system.

INTRODUCTION

Congratulations on your purchase of the Float E2 Airbag system.

This manual provides you with information about the function and use of the Float E2 Airbag system. It applies to every backcourntry snowsport enthusiast.

The Float E2 Airbag system is designed to help improve your chances of surviving an avalanche. It must be used correctly, following the guidelines in this manual. Do not modify any aspect of this product or perform any operations not described in this manual.

Please read this manual carefully before you use the device. Pay special attention to the warning notices and strictly adhere to the information within the user manual. In order to be able to easily consult this user manual we suggest that you keep it in a convenient location.

The Float E2 Airbag system is emergency equipment, which under certain conditions can prevent a total burial or minimize burial depth if activated.

That is the key to reducing avalanche fatalities because the majority of time in an avalanche rescue is spent on excavating the victim. An airbag is designed to keep you at or near the surface, minimizing excavation time. It cannot prevent the release of an avalanche or guarantee survival under any conditions. An element of deadly risk remains even if the user doesn’t get buried. Every avalanche is absolutely life threatening regardless of any equipment. As with other avalanche rescue tools, your airbag should not promote taking more risks.

In the event of an avalanche, the user must tug on the trigger handle in order to activate the inflation: this inflates the 162 liter avalanche airbag within 3 seconds.

The Float E2 Airbag system concept is based on the physical principle of inverse segregation. This is a phenomenon whereby, given a uniformly moving mass of particles, the smaller particles sink downwards and the larger ones float to the surface. The inflated airbag increases the victim’s volume and greatly amplifies this inverse segregation effect. The avalanche backpack helps prevent total burial in the snow. The airbag’s shape protects the back and the head of the user. Moreover, the rounded shape gives optimal float efficiency on the avalanche and the bright airbag color helps rapid localization.

Any airbag must be used in conjunction with a beacon, shovel, probe, and helmet to increase your chance of survival. In addition to these rescue tools, you should acquire the necessary skills to avoid avalanche situations before heading into the backcountry. Take an avalanche safety course, practice with your equipment, and plan your route according to the regional avalanche forecast.
INTRODUCTION

The Float E2 Airbag system is certified by TÜV Süd (Daimlerstr. 11, 85748 Garching bei München, Germany.) to meet the requirements of the EU regulation (EU 2016 / 425).

DELIVERY

FLOAT E2 SUPERCAP

SUPERCAPACITORS
The Float E2 Airbag system does not use lithium-ion or lithium polymer batteries to fuel the compressor’s electric motor.

The Float E2 Airbag system uses its supercapacitors to store energy in the form of an electrostatic field. Unlike traditional batteries, there is no need to create a chemical reaction to generate energy, allowing the Float E2 Airbag system to release its power faster.

The Float E2 Airbag system supercapacitors offer several advantages over batteries. They are not sensitive to changes in temperature, delivering the same performance at -30 degrees C and +50 degrees C. This saves weight because, unlike batteries, there is no need to boost the supercapacitors to guarantee outstanding performance at low temperatures.

While batteries tend to wear out after repeated charges, the supercapacitors stay strong. They are guaranteed for 500,000 charging cycles with a nearly infinite lifespan, clearly superior to the 3 to 5-year lifespan of the average battery. What’s more, the supercapacitors are considered passive electronic elements, like cameras for example, so there are no restrictions to travel, shipping or storage. This is a major advantage over traditional batteries and compressed gas cartridge systems.

THE RADIAL COMPRESSOR
The Float E2 Airbag system uses a radial compressor, similar to turbo compressors found in cars. This design allows for high-speed air flow and inflation pressure equal to compressed air cartridge avalanche airbag systems.

AA BATTERIES
The Float E2 Airbag system uses two AA batteries for two primary purposes:

to recharge the supercapacitors
to guarantee that the supercapacitors keep their full power, compensating for their slow loss of charge and ensuring several months of autonomy (see the section on autonomy)

NOTICE: Only alkaline or lithium (AA batteries) should be used (for quick recharging at very low temperatures). Use brand new, premium quality alkaline AA / LR6 batteries.
Do not use AA zinc carbon batteries and NiCd or NiMH accumulators (rechargeable). These are often not strong enough to sufficiently charge the supercapacitors.
Depending on the AA batteries technology, recharge and autonomy can vary:

Alkaline batteries:
- are capable of 1 recharge or 3 months autonomy of normal use (1.5 month if constantly on).
- it is strongly recommended to change the batteries after 1 recharge of the system (after inflation).
Lithium batteries:
- are capable of 3 recharges or 5 months autonomy of normal use (3 months if constantly on).
- it is strongly recommended to change the batteries after 3 recharges of the system (after inflation).

USB-C PORT

The USB-C port (5V – 3A) makes it possible to recharge the supercapacitors using the USB-C cable provided.

Charging can be completed with a standard USB-C charger (not included), like those used for cell phones. Recharging the supercapacitors with the

USB-C cable takes priority over recharging via the 2 AA batteries.

The supercapacitors can be recharged with the USB-C cable even in the absence of the AA batteries.

ON / OFF AND AUTO-TEST

To turn on the E2 System, use the ON / OFF switch. This safety switch prevents undesired activation inside the bag. Pull the switch up, turn it clockwise and hold for 2 seconds.
Each time it is turned on, the E2 System conducts an auto-test to verify that the motor, supercapacitors and electronics are functioning properly.
During this self-test, the 3 LEDs light up chronologically to check that the LEDs are functioning. Simultaneously, the LCD display blinks to check that the LCD display is working properly and all icons are visible.
ON / OFF AND AUTO-TEST

During this auto-test, the motor completes a first rotation at low speed, switching on the green LED.
If the auto-test is succesfully completed, the motor rotates a second time and the green / orange LED will blink

The system is ready for use.
If the auto-test detects a malfunction, the motor will rotate 4x and the red LED will remain on. There is a problem in the system and it is not operational.
If the system detects a malfunction and it is charging, the red LED will remain on and the orange LED will blink rapidly.
If there is a failure during the self-test, the following icon will be displayed on the LCD:
To turn the system OFF, pull the switch and turn it clockwise (same procedure as for turning ON). The motor will rotate 1 x and the red LED will turn on and off again to indicate that the system has shut down.

NOTICE: The LED blinking speed indicates that the system is either charging (4 x per second) or in standard ON mode (1 x every 10 seconds).

TERRAIN USE AND LED STATUSES
To use the E2 System on terrain, you will need to:

Turn ON the E2 System
Verify that the auto-test is okay
If the green LED blinks, the system is operational with at least six hours of autonomy
If the orange LED blinks, the system is operational with less than six hours of autonomy.
If the red LED blinks, the system cannot guarantee 100% inflation and must be charged before use.
If the red LED remains on, the system is defective and must not be used.
NOTICE: The LED blinking speed indicates that the system is either charging (4 x per second) or in standard ON mode (1 x every 10 seconds).
To activate the airbag inflation, pull hard (between 5 to 10 kg) on the activation trigger.

LCD DISPLAY

Supercapacitor charge level
AA battery power level: if the batteries are missing or completely empty, the icon blinks to indicate that batteries need to be changed or installed.
Displays when the pressure relief valve is triggered
Displays if the self-test is not functioning
Displays when the USB-C cable is connected and powered

PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE

The pressure relief valve is a solenoid-type electric valve and is active 3 minutes after the end of inflation for a maximum of 10 minutes or less depending on the residual energy in the batteries or supercapacitors. It will then close automatically.
As soon as the valve is activated, the following icon appears on the LCD display.
The purpose of this valve is to reduce the airbag pressure 3 minutes after inflation. This is to reduce the stress on the seams and fabric of the airbag, ensuring a longer lifespan inflation after inflation.
The pressure relief valve also allows passive and partial deflation of the airbag by reducing its pressure but does not allow complete deflation of the airbag.
The operation of the pressure relief valve is controlled 3x during each self- test and can be clearly heard from the characteristic ticking noise (like a Swiss watch!)

AIRBAG INFLATION

Before entering avalanche terrain, unzip the pocket where the trigger handle is stored (see image on right).
In the event of an avalanche, pull hard (between 5 to 10 kg) on the activation trigger. The airbag will inflate in 3-4 seconds.
The compressor will operate for 5 seconds and then stop.
The airbag will remain inflated for a minimum of three minutes, then the pressure relief valve will be activated, and a passive and partial deflation of the airbag will take place.
Once inflation is complete, the supercapacitors will automatically recharge thanks to the two AA batteries if installed (see section 3)
AIRBAG INFLATION

NOTICE: In compliance with the EN 16716 standard “Certification of Avalanche airbags,” the airbag must remain inflated for a minimum of three minutes. An avalanche airbag is not a life vest; therefore, it is normal that it does not remain inflated at full pressure for more than three minutes.

HANDLING DURING AVALANCHE INCIDENT

In the event of an avalanche, always try to reach a place of safety or escape from the path of the avalanche. If on them, try also to remove your skis or snowboard, as these have an anchoring effect in an avalanche. Once the avalanche appears to be losing momentum, close your mouth and hold your arms in front of your face to create a life-saving air pocket. Once the avalanche has stopped moving and you can extract yourself, do not remove the airbag when you help others. Only remove when you are confident there is no more risk of a second avalanche.

CHARGE AND STATUS OF THE SYSTEM

RECHARGING THE SUPERCAPACITORS

There are two ways to recharge the supercapacitors:

Insert the two AA batteries (not included). The supercapacitors will be automatically recharged once the batteries are in place. Depending on the type of batteries and the temperature, charging takes 40-80 minutes.
Use the USB-C port and the standard micro-USB-C cable (provided). The USB-C port can be connected to a standard charger (not included), like those used for cell phones, or to a standard power bank. Depending on the type of charger or power bank, charging takes 20-40 minutes.

The charging status is indicated by the rapid blinking of the LEDs (4 x per second).
The level of charge is indicated by the LED colour.

Red: low charge – the charge level cannot guarantee 100% inflation and must be charged before use.
Orange: medium charge – the charge level guarantees 100 % inflation of the airbag but with less than six hours of autonomy.
Green: charging is complete – the LED blinks slowly (1 x every 10 seconds).

WARNING: Do not leave the USB-C cable connected while using the E2 System in the terrain. After charging is complete, remove the USB-C cable.

NOTICE

Before the first use, charge the system with the USB-C port. After prolonged storage without batteries (e.g., over the summer or a new system), charging the supercapacitors will take longer than after inflation. After inflation there is still energy in the supercapacitors, but after prolonged storage without batteries, the supercapacitors will be completely empty.
Charging with the USB-C cable takes priority over the batteries. If the batteries are in place and the cable is connected, charging will be carried out via the cable without draining the batteries.
Charging is also possible without batteries using the USB-C cable.
If the system is charging in OFF mode, The LED will blink but the system will remain in OFF.
The system recharges automatically. If the airbag is inflated, the system will begin to recharge on the batteries or the USB-C port immediately.
2 AA batteries allow for 1-2 recharging cycles of the supercapacitors (depending on the quality of the batteries used and the charging temperature).

SUMMARY OF LED STATUSES

Green LED blinking slowly (1 x per 10 seconds) ‒> The E1 System is charged (> 6h)
Orange LED blinking rapidly‒> The E1 System is charging and operational with less than six hours of autonomy
Red LED blinking rapidly ‒> The E2 System is charging and not operational; the charge level cannot guarantee full inflation of the airbag.
+ Red LED is permanently on and the orange LED is blinking rapidly ‒> The E2 System is defective because the auto-test has detected a malfunction; the system is charging but it is not operational.
Green LED blinking slowly (1 x per 10 seconds) ‒> The E1 System is charged (> 6h).
Orange LED blinking rapidly ‒> The E1 System is operational with less than six hours of autonomy.
Red LED blinking rapidly ‒> The E2 System is not operational; the charge level cannot guarantee full inflation of the airbag.
Red LED is permanently on ‒> The E2 System is defective because the auto-test has detected a malfunction; the system is not operational.

AUTONOMY OF THE E2 SYSTEM

The system’s autonomy depends on the quality and energy of the AA batteries and the frequency and duration of use in ON or OFF mode. The times
listed below assume the use of high-quality alkaline batteries:

Up to 3 months of autonomy with two new AA alkaline batteries not including recharge of the supercapacitors (new batteries inserted after recharging the supercapacitors)
The system can be used without additional AA batteries. However we strongly suggest to always use it with the batteries to ensure extended autonomy.

NOTICE

If the system is charged with the USB-C and used without batteries, it will only have a maximum autonomy of 12 to 24 hours, which is perfectly normal because the AA batteries ensure the autonomy of the E2.

DEFLATING AND RE-FOLDING THE AIRBAG

The airbag should be deflated using the airbag’s deflation button. Lift the safety cover of the deflation button and press the button to deflate the airbag. Once the airbag is deflated, the springs on the safety cover automatically close it.
To fold the airbag, see the folding scheme below.
DEFLATING AND RE-FOLDING THE AIRBAG

WARNING: The deflation button is equipped with an orange indicator to ensure that the deflation button has returned to the upper position and thus does not keep the non return valve in the deflation position.

If the orange indicator is visible, this means that the deflation button has not returned to the initial position and could keep the check valve open. In this case, check that snow or ice is not blocking the deflation button in the pressed position.

Do not use the E2 if the deflation button is jammed (orange indicator visible).
After each deflation, check that the orange indicator is not visible.
DEFLATING AND RE-FOLDING THE AIRBAG

WARNING: DO NOT TWIST THE AIRBAG, DO NOT CROSS THE HOOKS, DO NOT ROLL THE AIRBAG, DO NOT BLOCK THE AIRBAG.
WARNING: The compressor compartment must remain closed to prevent objects from being sucked into the compressor and blocking inflation of the airbag.
DEFLATING AND RE-FOLDING THE AIRBAG

CORRECT ATTACHMENT & SETTING

Your pack should be properly fitted before you head into avalanche terrain. The forces of an avalanche can rip the pack from your back if it is not secured to your body. Put the backpack on and adjust the shoulder straps to fit your body. Always fasten waist belt, sternum and leg strap and fit them according to your body.

WARNING:The waist belt and leg strap must be fastened for the system to function.
CORRECT ATTACHMENT & SETTING

STERNUM STRAP
WAIST BELT
LEG STRAP

HOW TOADJUST THE TRIGGERHANDLE

Adjust the height of the trigger handle on the shoulder strap. There are 2 3 three different settings. The trigger handle should ideally be at chest height.
Turn up the trigger handle to change the height position.
Then slide the trigger handle out of the webbing loop according and slide it back at the correct height.

INSTRUCTIONS

REGULAR CHECKS
Your Float E2 Airbag system requires no maintenance, but the following points must be observed:

Perform practice deployment of airbag at least once a year, prior to a new season and after the backpack has been exposed to moisture.
Ensure that the airbag and components are completely dry before packing the airbag away.
Prior to every tour, check all the points described in this user manual and inspect the condition of the system’s safety straps and fastenings.

MAINTENANCE

POST-AVALANCHE CHECK
Every use of the Float E2 Airbag system can negatively affect the material. Often the damage is not visible with the naked eye. After use in an avalanche, you must contact your nearest BCA or ALPRIDE service center for inspection of the Float E2 Airbag system. Until you are able to send back the Float E2 Airbag system, the following points must be checked.

Check the airbag visually for punctures.
Check the airbag fastening straps for tears.
Check the shoulder, waist and chest straps as well as the seams for tears.
Check all buckles (adjustment buckles at the shoulder straps, waist and chest strap).
Check buckles as well as leg straps for tears and deformation.

HOW TO REMOVE THE DETACHABLE AIRBAG SYSTEM

Turn off the system, open the zipper on the airbag and unhook the 5 hooks.
Open the backpack and the strap pocket. Detach the trigger handle.
Remove the trigger handle through the opening between the shoulder strap and the airbag compartment.
Remove the compressor through the side of the airbag compartment

HOW TO INSTALL THE REMOVABLE AIRBAG SYSTEM

Insert the compressor through the side of the airbag compartment
Run the cable under the compression strap, Pass the trigger handle through the hole between the shoulder strap and the airbag pocket, attach the trigger handle. Close the shoulder strap pocket and close the zip.
Attach the 5x hooks, fold the airbag, close the zip.

STORAGE, CLEANING & SERVICE LIFE

STORAGE
Store your Float E2 Airbag system in a cool, dry environment. For safety reasons, keep the backpack out of the reach of children. Backcountry Access Inc. and Alpride SA shall not be liable for any damages and losses due to improper storage.

CLEANING
Use only water (no cleaning products!) to clean the backpack. Ensure that the entire product is dry before using it again to avoid the risk of icing. In case of a dirty inflator, the inflator system must be cleaned properly with a damp soft microfiber towel. Backcountry Access Inc. and Alpride SA shall not be liable for any damages and losses due to improper cleaning.

DISPOSAL
The product must not be disposed in the household waste. Do not mechanically disrupt or incinerate the product. This may lead to potential hazards.

ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES:

Never dispose of the electrical appliance in your household waste.
Return the electrical appliance using the recycling facilities provided.
Contact your local refuse disposal authority for more details.

AA/LR6 1.5 V Batteries:

Never dispose of batteries in your household waste.
They may contain toxic heavy metals and are subject to hazardous waste regulations.
The chemical symbols of the heavy metals are: Cd = cadmium, Hg = mercury, Pb = lead.
Only dispose of batteries when they are fully discharged.
Before disposing of the appliance it is essential to first remove the batteries.
Return batteries using the recycling facilities provided.
Contact your local refuse disposal authority for more details.

SERVICE LIFE
The product has a limited life time and should be replaced in case of signs of mechanical wear. It is recommended to regularly control your gear and to replace it at least every five years after first use. The functioning could be reduced due to mechanical wear or improper use. Dispose of the product if you notice any damage. The Float E2 Airbag system is designed to withstand 50 inflations.

TRANSPORT & TRAVEL

The Float E2 Airbag system uses only 2 AA batteries. The Float E2 Airbag system has no Li-Ion / Li-Po battery, no gas cartridges under pressure and no pyrotechnic trigger.

The Float E2 Airbag system has no restrictions for travelling and shall not be considered as Dangerous Good in the meaning of the Dangerous Goods Regulations.

Even though there are absolutely no restrictions for travelling with the Float E2 Airbag system, to avoid any misunderstanding with airport security agents, we recommend to announce to the airlines that you are travelling with an electrical avalanche airbag WITHOUT battery. The Float E2 Airbag system has a pressure relief valve system.

TROUBLESHOOTING

MALFUNCTION	TROUBLESHOOTING
The airbag doesn’t inflate when pulling trigger?

Is the E2 On? → Check LED
Are the supercapacitors charged enough (LED orange or green)? 3- Is the autotest ok? → Check LED

The autotest doesn’t work?| The supercapacitors are not charged enough to run the motor?

→ Wait for orange or green LED

Autotest does not complete → Check LED| Check that ice or snow is not blocking the compressor wheel, dry the system completely before further use.
Airbag does not inflate fully?|

There might be any of the following reasons for the malfunction: 1- If the airbag is rolled instead of properly folded
Because there is a webbing or something covering and restraining the zipper
The deflation button is blocked in deflating position and preventing the non-return valve to close properly

The system does not charge from the AA batteries?| Make sure you are using brand new, premium quality alkaline or lithium AA / LR6 batteries.

Do not use AA zinc carbon batteries and NiCd or NiMH accumulators (rechargeable).

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION	SPECIFICATIONS

Type: Float E2 Airbag system backpacks Operating Temperature: – 30°C / + 40°C IP65 conform controller

Alpride SA Patent No: EP3202462

| Weight of complete E2 SuperCap kit (without batteries): 1 140 g +/- 10 g Airbag balloon volume : 162 liters

Total volume of the complete airbag kit in backpack: 1.8 litres USB-C: 5 V – 3A DC

Batteries: 2 batteries AA / R6 / UM3 1.5 V Alkaline or Lithium

Certification: CE according to EN 16716 standards set by TÜV Süd GmBH Model: Float E2 Airbag

SERVICE CENTER

The Float E2 Airbag system customer service center for the different countries are listed under our website: https://backcountryaccess.com/services/float- resources/

SALES & HOMOLOGATION

SALES
Responsible for the development and commercialization in the EU and worldwide is: Backcountry Access Inc. (BCA) and Alpride SA, Chemin des Chômeurs 2, 2523 Lignières, Switzerland
All information related to importers is available at www.backcountryaccess.com

HOMOLOGATION
All declarations of conformity are available at https://backcountryaccess.com/services/float-resources/
Tested by TÜV Süd Product Service GmbH, Daimlerstr. 11, 85748 Garching bei München, Germany. Prüfstellennummer 0123.
Certified according to: EN 16716: 2017
The Float E2 Airbag comply with the provisions and safety requirements of the European Standard EN 16716: 2017 for Mountaineering equipment
– Avalanche airbag systems – Safety requirements and test methods.
All homologated backpacks are labelled with corresponding seals indicating they have passed the official tests. They are affixed in plain sight and may not be removed.

WARRANTY
The manufacturer, Backcountry Access, Inc. (BCA), expressly warrants the workmanship and components of this product for three years after the date of retail purchase. All parts will be either repaired or replaced free of charge, including labor, by the manufacturer. This warranty does not cover damage to the product caused by improper use or excessive wear and tear. Direct all warranty claims to BCA or your airbag retailer. All claims must include proof of purchase and a return authorization number.

For additional warranty information, please visit: www.backcountryaccess.com/warranty

The labels contain the following

XXXXXX	Name of the model of the product.
Warning ! The end user should carefully read the instruction before using

the product (PPE).
| Manufacturing date : Year-Month / Individual serial number.
| The CE marking ensures compliance with the essential requirements of Regulation EU 2016 / 425.
| Eurasian Conformity Mark.
EN16716:2017| Reference for Personal Protective Equipment that is in compliance with the European harmonized technical standard used in the design and CE certification.
| This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
****| UKCA Certification.
| The EU declaration of conformity can be accessed on https://backcountryaccess.com/services/float-resources/

AVALANCHE RESCUE

This is a basic introduction to avalanche rescue techniques. On our website, you will also find a list of avalanche instructors. We strongly suggest taking an avalanche course in your area before venturing into the backcountry. Each person needs a working beacon, probe and shovel – and must know how to use them. Before leaving, call your local avalanche forecast center and determine the danger level and avalanche problem in the area you intend to visit:

US: www.avalanche.org
CANADA: www.avalanche.ca
EUROPE: www.lawinen.org

SEARCHING FOR VICTIMS
If a member of your group is buried, you must perform a beacon search. The objective is to find the strongest signal (lowest distance reading) and immediately begin probing the area. In the event of a burial, switch all avalanche beacons to search mode. The guidelines below assume the use of a digital beacon.
SEARCHING FOR VICTIMS

SIGNAL SEARCH: If there is a “last seen point,” start your signal search there. Otherwise, start your signal search at the top, bottom or side of the slide path. See diagram on right to establish a search pattern.

COARSE SEARCH: Once a signal is engaged, align your beacon so that any of the center three lights are flashing and move quickly in the direction it is pointing. Make sure the number in the distance display is decreasing. If it is increasing, turn 180 degrees. Inside ten meters, move slowly and try to keep the center search light engaged.

FINE SEARCH: Within three meters, use your beacon as close as possible to the snow surface and look for the smallest distance reading. Confirm by “bracketing” in the perpendicular direction.

PROBING/PINPOINTING: At the point where the distance has reached a minimum, probe the area in concentric circles, with each probe hole about 10 inches (25cm) apart. Your probe should enter the snow perpendicular to the slope. Once you have confirmed the victim’s location, leave the probe in the snow.

SHOVELING: For best results, start shoveling at least one step downhill of the probe. Make sure your hole is at least one “wingspan” wide. If there is enough manpower, then in burials of one meter or less, both shovelers should be digging near the probe. In burials deeper than one meter, one person should dig near the probe with others downhill, to move snow away from the hole.

The information contained in this manual is in various languages but only the English version will be relevant in case of conflict.
Backcountry Access and the BCA logo are registered trademarks of Backcountry Access, Inc. Alpride is a trademark of Alpride SA