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The ABS airbag system is simple to handle but requires care and training. Therefore, follow the instructions for use exactly and practice pulling the trigger handle often until it is internalized.
For the functioning of the ABS Avalanche Airbag you need an activation unit (cartridge + handle). In order to ensure your proficiency you can conduct a practice activation at your retailer.
Please read the user manual before you practice your first activation by pulling the activation handle. It is imperative that you fill out the warranty card online. Your warranty claim will then be extended to 4 years.
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- Do not attach the activation handle to the ABS-System unless you have attached a full cartridge first.
- Always change the activation handle and cartridge after an activation of the system! Only when both parts have been changed is the system ready to use again.
- Remove the activation handle when airbag is not in use.
- Always use the ABS Avalanche Airbag System in combination with an avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe.
The ABS-System is Made in Germany.
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1. Step:
Checking the cartridge weight
Check the weight of the cartridge without the cartridge cap before each use. The weight is listed on the bottom or the side of the cartridge. Tolerance limit +/- 5 grams (0.18 oz). Your retail shop will exchange any cartridge with a weight that differs more than the tolerance limit at no charge. A completely full cartridge is an absolute prerequisite for the proper functioning of the ABS Avalanche Airbag.
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2. Step:
Attaching the cartridge
Check if the puncturing unit is clean before attaching the cartridge. The piercing pin must be visible in the middle. Screw in the full cartridge right up to the back stop and tight enough that there is no possibility of another turn.
Check that the cartridge is screwed in tightly before each use of the airbag to avoid leakage and malfunctions. It should be easy to screw in the cartridge right up to the back stop. Make sure that the cartridge doesn’t get screwed in on an angle. If you experience any resistance or if it is really hard to turn the cartridge right up to the back stop, then this cartridge cannot be used! Your retail shop will exchange the cartridge at no charge.
On the Escape Freeride model the puncturing unit for the cartridge is located in the zippered pocket inside the right airbag compartment.Make sure to close the zipper after attaching the cartridge.
On the 10 l Freeride model the piercing unit for the cartridge is located in the main compartment behind the zipper.
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3. Step:
Attaching straps and belts
Put the backpack on and adjust shoulder straps to fit your body. Always fasten waist belt, chest and leg straps and fit them according to your body. The ABS-System will only be of use to you if the backpack stays on your body during an emergency!
Most of the weight of the pack should be resting on your hips rather than being carried by your shoulders.
The carrying system meets the TÜV guidelines for extreme operational demands. The tensile strength for all weight bearing straps equals 3000 N (674lbf). Tip! Put on your backpack before you attach the activation handle. This way you avoid an unwanted or inadvertent activation.
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4. Step:
Checking the activation handle
The activation handle is charged with a small pressurized capsule, which contains 0.19 grams of explosives. It can therefore only be unsed once. By pulling the attached activation handle the pressurized capsule explodes. The resulting pressure punctures the cartridge and the airbags are filled.
The pressurized capsule functions for a limited time only. We therefore do not recommend the use of unused cartridges after 3 winter seasons.
The metal pin on the side opening of the release handle indicates the maximum operating time. Please observe the following expiry dates:
- Silver-colored metal pins expiry date May 2010
- Black metal pins expiry date May 2012
- Gold-colored metal pins expiry date May 2013
Unused, expired release handles can be exchanged for a fee.
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The pin has to be firmly fixed and the red line should not be visible. If the red line is visible on the pin, the handle has not been charged and therefore will not function properly! Do not use damaged handles as this might cause it to burst during the activation function. Do not try to pull the pin outside of the brass quick coupler – risk of injury! Protect the handle from contamination! Always store the handle away from children!
For the wireless activation handle please consult the special instruction manual.
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5. Step:
Attaching activation handle
In order to attach the activation handle, align the pin with the brass coupler and push the handle in. With the other hand flip up the plastic flap, thus administering counter pressure. The brass coupler will automatically snap back. Only then is the handle attached properly and ready to use.
If the handle is not attached properly and is stuck due to the coupler snapping back into place, a proper activation will be impossible. Attention! Only attach the handle if a full cartridge has been screwed in. When activating without a cartridge or with an empty one, the system will be damaged and the pin must be exchanged. Please direct all queries to your respective Service center.
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6. Step:
Velcro closure
The Velcro closure secures the activation handle in order to avoid unwanted activations. Before you leave a patrolled area, the red Velcro closure must be completely loosened and attached behind the activation handle to facilitate an unhindered activation. A tightly fastened Velcro usually prohibits an activation.
In order to completely eliminate unwanted activations we recommend that you remove the activation handle. Particularly in situations when you could endanger yourself and other people such as on chairlifts, in gondolas, in the helicopter, the bus, train, etc.
For the wireless activation handle please consult the special instruction manual.
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7. Step:
Height adjustment of the activation handle
Check when wearing the backpack if the activation handle is positioned in a way that works for you. Usually that is the case, if not, the handle attachment can be adjusted to the appropriate height. The proper position of the activation handle should be between chest and shoulder.
In order to adjust the height open and undo the Velcro closure, attach the handle plate to the appropriate plastic grommet and fasten the Velcro closure.
Make sure that the activation handle is not obstructed by clothing and that it can be easily reached.
A retail shop will be able to attach the activation handle on the right hand strap if so desired by left-handed clients. A special handle plate is therefore needed.
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8. Step:
Remove activation handle
In order to remove the handle, undo the Velcro closure and push the coupler upwards. The activation handle will pop out without you pulling on it. Do not pull the charged activation handle, the system will be activated! Remove the handle when ABS backpack is not in use and store it in the pocket located at the hip strap.
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9. Step:
Practice activation
We want you to feel 100% comfortable with the ABS-System. Therefore you are able to conduct a practice activation and experience the action of the ABS-System as close to real conditions as possible at your retailer at no cost.
Please ensure that during the practice activation the distance to people and objects is approximately 1 m (3.28 feet) in order to avoid adverse affects.
Activate the handle with a strong, rapid pull. The required activation force equals approx. 8 kg (17.64 lb; 80 N). The airbags will inflate within 2-3 seconds.
Please make sure to perform the yearly practice activation in order to retain the extended warranty.
Attention: background noise after inflation is caused by the release valve, which automatically equalizes the pressure. The inflation of the airbags varies according to the outside temperature and elevation.
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10. Step:
Deflate airbags
Push the release valve (flip up red cover, push red button in the center of the black suction and release unit) and compress the airbag while emptying completely. Attention! Only deflate when there is no longer any avalanche danger!
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11. Step:
Folding airbags
Attention! Improper folding will result in poor opening of the airbags. This can lead to malfunction and damage to the backpack!
Therefore please fold the airbags according to the following instructions.
1. Always put the airbags on the ground with the suction and release valve facing down. The smooth side of the airbag faces you.
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2. Fold the top edge of the airbag towards you. The top fold of the airbag should be at the height of the airbag compartment.
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3. Fold the lower part of the airbag towards you so that the height of the lower edge of the airbag is in line with the airbag compartment.
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4. Fold the airbags in an accordion manner from the inside to the outside (away from the backpack), one hand width wide so that they can unfold freely
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5. Now push the airbags in the designated compartments. The suction and release valve must be clearly visible on top of the airbag material.
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6. Fasten the Velcro closures of the airbag compartments tightly.
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12. Step:
Replace cartridge and activation handle
After every activation the cartridge and the activation handle must be replaced. Proceed according to step 1, 2 and 4, 5. The ABS-System is then once again operational. Proceed now with the practice activation and complete the on-line form in order to extend the warranty.
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