Hi David. Thank you for your reasonable response to my post.
I agree with you, level 3 and level 4 are both high risk areas. Level 5 really does not apply as my experience of that level has only been when the whole resort has been closed down and I would not consider going out in areas with any chance of a slide personally in those conditions.
Regarding the wording and what has been posted. Part of this exercise was to bring to peoples attention the way different wording is used by companies rather than sticking to the standard descriptions for each level. A number of companies have confirmed that they are looking at how this can be brought more in line with official wording. If nothing else, this is a good result. Whether they would have done this anyway, I do not know and it really does not matter.
The other very positive thing that I feel has come out of this discussion is that for those people, and we both know there are many, that do not carry arvi kit with them off piste or know where they are skiing, this has made them more aware of the risks they are taking. I hope so anyway and from the feedback I have had, I think that is a correct assumption.
If providing the details we have done has made people sit up and think about where they ski, how they ski and what kit they take with them, then this has been a worthwhile exercise and one I shall continue with until all those that have been contacted by others have shared what they wish too.
The information coming from resorts regarding this subject has also proved very interesting. There concerns over unpaid rescue bills and avalanche protection above or near to pistes also has legal concerns as the recent case in Switzerland has shown.
I shall take on board your first comment re. the average skier that might be reading this and make clear the risks at all levels. A fair point indeed.
Regarding the CN and EHIC. I have always been very specific that I have been talking about ski rescue and medical treatment. I have also said I use personal health cover on top of this for other things when away, but I take your point and will be sure to make clear that I agree with you, a person must have cover for none ski related injuries, travel etc.