In avalanche safety, who is responsible for warning of subsequent avalanches and restricting access to the run-out zone?

• A. Gatekeeper
• B. Safety officer
• C. Avalanche guard
• D. Site supervisor

Answer: (C)

In avalanche safety, the person responsible for warning about continued avalanche activity and restricting access to the run-out zone is the avalanche guard. This role is dedicated to monitoring slopes after a slide, noticing signs of additional instability, and issuing warnings or closing off areas to keep people safe. The avalanche guard uses barriers, signage, and coordination with others to prevent entry into a zone where a secondary avalanche could occur, which is why this is their primary duty.

The gatekeeper mainly controls entry to a specific area or facility, not the ongoing hazard assessment or active restricting of a run-out zone. The safety officer oversees safety policies and programs rather than on-the-ground hazard monitoring. The site supervisor manages broader operations and may coordinate responses, but the specialized task of watching for post-slide danger and enforcing access limits falls to the avalanche guard.