Backcountry Access Float 18 User manual

OWNER'S MANUAL
Backcountry Access, Inc. •Boulder, Colorado, 80301 USA •www.backcountryaccess.com
Owner’s manual for Float 18, Float 30 and Float 36 avalanche airbag systems
Benutzerhandbuch für Float 18, Float 30 und Float 36 Lawinenairbag-Systeme
Manuel d’instructions pour les systèmes de coussin gonflable d’avalanche
Float 18, Float 30 et Float 36
Manuale dell’utente per sistemi airbag antivalanga Float 18, Float 30 e Float 36

airbag
leg strap loop
insulated hydration sleeve
(not included in Float 18)
trigger handle
leg strap 119
Basic Components
12

Basic Components
Float 18
waist strap pocket 10
shovel shaft and probe sleeves
helmet carry system loops
helmet carry system loops
airbag compartment
diagonal ski mount loop
diagonal ski mount loop
snowboard attachment loops
(attachment sold separately)

Basic Components
Float 30
waist strap pocket 10
airbag compartment
compression straps
shovel handle/probe storage pocket
shovel blade storage pocket
helmet carry system loops
helmet carry system loops
lined goggle storage pocket
diagonal ski mount loop
diagonal ski mount loop
snowboard attachment loops
(attachment sold separately)

waist strap pocket
airbag compartment
ski/snowboard
compression strap
ski/snowboard
compression strap
helmet carry system loops
helmet carry system loops
lined goggle storage pocket
ski mount loop
Basic Components
Float 36
10
ski/snowboard
compression strap
ice axe cords
ice axe loops
helmet sling storage
webbing loop for
attaching ski strap

6
Why do I need an avalanche airbag?
Preventing or minimizing burial depth is the key to reducing avalanche fatalities. That’s 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.
How does a pack reduce burial depth?
Inverse segregation, more commonly referred to as the “Brazil nut effect,” is the science behind why
airbags work. The turbulent movement sorts different shaped objects by size (similar to the way large
Brazil nuts will rise to the top when a bowl of mixed nuts is shaken). Smaller objects are more likely
to fall into the voids created by the turbulence, while larger objects move to the top. In addition to
increasing your overall buoyancy, the Float avalanche airbag is designed to make a backcountry user
“bigger” than the surrounding pieces of debris in an avalanche. The Float uses compressed air in the
cylinder to fill the bag and make the user’s volume larger, reducing—or eliminating—burial depth and
increasing your chances of survival.
Disclaimer
The Float avalanche airbag system is designed to improve your chances of surviving an avalanche
by reducing your likelihood of getting buried. The Float must be used correctly, following the
guidelines in this manual. Perform a practice deployment at least once a year. Do not modify any
aspect of this product or perform any operations not described in this manual.
Your Float airbag cannot prevent the release of an avalanche or guarantee survival under any
conditions. While it will provide some protection from impact, no airbag system can completely
prevent injury from trauma. Any airbag must be used in conjunction with a beacon, shovel, probe,
and helmet to provide the best chance of survival. As with other avalanche rescue tools, your airbag
should not promote taking more risks.
You have invested in lifesaving technology. Be sure you have also invested your time in acquiring
the necessary skills to avoid avalanche situations before heading into the backcountry. Take an
avalanche awareness course, practice good snow safety skills, and keep your eyes and ears open in
the mountains. Prevention is always the best protection!
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 retailer. All claims must include proof of purchase and a return authorization
number. To ensure warranty protection and periodic technical updates please register online at
www.backcountryaccess.com/warranty.
Theory of Operation / Disclaimer / Warranty

7
Equipment Check
Compressed Air System
ejector assembly
release valve cover
air hose
quick connect tting
coupler gauge
trigger cable
air cylinder
pressure gauge
trigger cover
3
2
1
4
13
14
8
5

8
Be sure to complete the following steps before each use of your Float avalanche airbag pack.
Refer to the numbered images and diagrams for visual reference.
The compressed air system (see page 7) is identical in every BCA Float pack. However, each size
Float (18, 30 and 36) has slightly different pack features. To reach the compressed air system, follow
the directions for your specific pack.
Float 18: Unzip the main compartment, then unzip the interior zipper. Move the shovel and probe
sleeves to the side.
Float 30: Unzip the main compartment, then unzip the interior zipper.
Float 36: Unzip the back panel access zipper.
System Fittings
Check the quick connect fitting ubetween the compressed air cylinder vand the air hose
w(see page 7) to make sure it is attached securely. The plastic coupler gauge xmust fit in place to
ensure the system is properly connected.
Unscrew the trigger cover yand make sure the trigger cable nut zis attached securely to the
trigger pin {. Replace trigger cover.
Equipment Check
WRONG
1
and make sure the trigger cable nut
z
is attached securely to the
1
4
SECURE
TRIGGER CABLE NUT ATTACHED
7
6
5
6
5
5
Air Cylinder
Check the pressure gauge |on the compressed air cylinder and make sure it is between 2500
and 2700 psi (172 to 186 bar) at room temperature (approximately 70°F or 21°C). Pressure must

9
be checked at room temperature for the reading to be accurate. Check pressure before every use.
PRESSURE MUST BE IN THIS RANGE OR THE SYSTEM MAY NOT FUNCTION PROPERLY.
Once the system is exposed to cold, the pressure will drop. If the pressure is ever observed below
2000 psi (138 bar), at any temperature, the airbag may not fill completely. See “Installing Compressed
Air Cylinder” on page 12 for replacement details.
Inspect the cylinder. Do not use a cylinder that is dented or damaged.
Pack
Check that nothing is loose inside the compressed air system or blocking the ejector assembly 14 .
Make sure the compartment is zipped completely shut.
Check to make sure that nothing is obstructing the airbag compartment on the outside of the pack,
especially any items with sharp points such as crampons or ice tools.
Pack Adjustments
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.
Attaching Leg Strap
The leg strap }is stored behind the right waist strap
pocket. ~It should be used to prevent the pack from
being pulled off in an avalanche. Pull leg strap out and
loosen the adjustment on the strap so you have plenty
of length to work with. With the loop 11 in your hand,
bring the strap around the outside of your leg then
through your legs.
Insert the waist strap through the leg strap loop, then fasten the waist buckle. Tighten the adjustment
until it is snug but comfortable.
Using the Avalanche Airbag
11
10
9
9
9
11

10
Waist Buckle
There are two parts to the buckle: male and female. Insert the male part into the widest opening of the
female part. Tighten the waist strap until snug. When attached correctly, the webbing and the buckle
should lay flat against your body.
Shovel and Probe Storage
Float 18: Store blade in main compartment. Store shaft and probe in shovel and probe sleeves
accessed from the top of the pack.
Float 30: Store blade in the front pocket, upside down if it has a long neck. The Velcro loop at the top
of the front pocket can be used for carrying the shovel assembled. Store shovel shaft and probe in
the side compartments, secured with the strap and fastener.
Float 36: Store blade, shaft and probe in the dedicated sleeves inside the main compartment.
Ski/Snowboard Attachment
Float 18: Skis can be carried using the diagonal ski mounts. To carry a snowboard, order our BCA
Snowboard Carry System, which integrates with the snowboard attachment loops on the back panel.
Float 30: Use the diagonal ski mounts. To carry a snowboard, order our BCA Snowboard Carry
System, which integrates with the snowboard attachment loops on the back panel.
Float 36: For carrying skis vertically, place tails through ski mount loop at bottom center of pack.
Place a ski strap through webbing loop centered near the upper compression strap. To carry diagonally,
run one half of upper compression strap beneath the webbing loop so upper half of the skis can be
secured to right or left side of the webbing loop. Use the compression straps for carrying a snowboard.
Hydration (reservoir not included)
Float 18: Not compatible with hydration system.
Float 30: To add a hydration system, place reservoir in main compartment (not compressed air
compartment) and secure with the bladder hanger cord. Feed hydration tube through hole in the back
panel and into left shoulder strap. Bite valve might need to be temporarily removed.
Float 36: Place reservoir in main compartment. Feed hydration tube through either hole in bottom corners
of compressed air compartment, through the compressed air compartment, and into the left shoulder strap.
Helmet Carrying
On the Float 18 and 30 the mesh helmet carry sling attaches to the four loops on the front of the pack.
On the Float 36, the helmet sling is stored in the compartment above the upper compression strap.
It can be secured to the loops above and below the helmet sling storage compartment.
Using the Avalanche Airbag

11
Deployment
When traveling in avalanche terrain, unzip the pocket where the trigger handle 12 is stored (see
image on right for reference). In case of an avalanche, pull the trigger handle quickly in a downward
motion. Try skiing or riding to the flanks of the avalanche to escape the debris. When the avalanche
slows down, preserve your airway by covering your mouth with your hand or elbow.
What to Expect
The airbag should exit the backpack and fill completely in approximately three
seconds. The airbag will continue to build pressure for a few seconds longer until
the system pressure equalizes. The airbag will hold air for several minutes until
the threat of an avalanche has passed.
After Deployment
Release the air from the airbag by pressing the release valve with your finger.
The valve is located underneath the orange release valve cover 13 . Do not use
hard or sharp objects to hold the release valve open, as they could damage the
valve-sealing surface. Re-pack the airbag into the airbag compartment. See
“Packing the Airbag” below for details. The Float airbag will not deploy again until
the cylinder is refilled or replaced. This can be done at a BCA retailer or refill
center (see www.backcountryaccess.com/refillcenters). To install the charged cylinder, see “Installing
Compressed Air Cylinder” on page 12. If you have deployed your airbag in an avalanche, please
contact BCA for a free product inspection.
Packing the Airbag
The airbag must be stuffed, not folded or rolled into the airbag compartment. DO NOT ROLL THE
AIRBAG OR THE SYSTEM MAY NOT DEPLOY PROPERLY. If the airbag is wet, dry it completely
before packing. Empty any residual air from the airbag using the release valve (you may need to do
this periodically as you pack the bag). After this air has been released, disconnect the air hose from
the cylinder before stuffing the airbag.
1) Completely separate the zipper so the slider is only attached to one set of teeth.
Bring zipper slider back to the opposite side of pack, (side where the zipper begins) (a).
2) Begin stuffing the airbag into the same side of the pack as the current location (a) of the slider.
3) After you have stuffed the first half of the airbag beyond the top Velcro flap, (b) zip the airbag
compartment to this point (b) and fold over the Velcro flap.
4) Finish stuffing the remaining airbag and pull the zipper the rest
of the way (c).
5) Refill or exchange your empty cylinder before using your
Float pack again.
Using the Avalanche Airbag
12
b
ca

12
Maintenance and Storage
No scheduled maintenance is required as long as the system is stored in a cool, dry place. Do not expose
a charged Float cylinder to temperatures exceeding 130°F (55°C) or below -22°F (-30°C). If subjected to
adverse conditions, check that all connections are free of contaminants. Pack can be cleaned with warm
soapy water and connections can be cleaned with a damp cloth. Do not use lubricants.
Periodic Deployment
BCA recommends deploying your Float airbag at least once per year, both to make sure the system
is operating correctly and to be sure the user knows how to operate the equipment efficiently. Put it
on, pull the trigger, repack the airbag and refill the cylinder before the season starts. Your Float airbag
is designed to undergo a minimum of 30 deployments and is warranted for three years. With proper
care, it should last five years or more.
Discharging Compressed Air Cylinder
If the compressed air cylinder vis pressurized but the pressure is below 2500 psi (172 bar) at 70°F
(21°C), it should not be used in the backcountry but it may be used for a practice deployment. Simply
deploy the airbag by pulling on the trigger handle.
If the compressed air cylinder must be discharged without deploying the airbag, disconnect the quick
connect fitting ubetween the compressed air cylinder and the air hose (coupler gauge xwill need
to be removed), close the compressed air system compartment, close the pack and pull the trigger
handle. The compressed air will empty directly into the pack.
DO NOT POINT CYLINDER OUTLET PORT (COUPLER) AT ANYONE OR ANYTHING, AS IT
COULD CAUSE DAMAGE OR INJURY. DISCHARGING A COMPRESSED AIR CYLINDER IS
LOUD – PERSONAL EAR PROTECTION IS RECOMMENDED.
Installing Compressed Air Cylinder
1. Remove packaging caps from pressurized air cylinder. Unzip the fabric inner liner in the pack (Float
18 and 30 only).
2. Position air cylinder vnext to the ejector assembly 14 as shown on page 7. Secure air cylinder
into place with the elastic and Velcro straps.
3. Connect the quick connect fitting uby pulling the large ring toward the air cylinder. It should click
back into place when air hose nipple is properly connected. Coupler gauge xshould fit in place to
ensure air hose is connected properly.
4. Screw the trigger cable nut zonto the trigger pin {. To grasp trigger cable nut before threading it
on the trigger pin, it will be necessary to push the trigger handle 12 back in, to expose more cable on
the other end.
Maintenance
1
4
1

13
5. Screw the trigger cover yover the trigger cable nut z.
6. Empty, discharged cylinders should only be refilled or exchanged at authorized Float refil or exchange
locations. For a list of these locations, please see www.backcountryaccess.com/refillcenters.
See “Shipping a Compressed Air Cylinder” below for shipping instructions, if shipping is required.
7. To disconnect an empty cylinder, follow these steps in reverse.
Shipping a Compressed Air Cylinder
DISCHARGE CYLINDER BEFORE SHIPPING.
Compressed air cylinders may not be shipped pressurized without proper (Hazmat) certification.
Empty or full compressed air cylinders must be shipped in original packaging to prevent damage.
Please return protective covers. When shipping unpressurized cylinders in their original packaging,
please make sure you remove any Hazmat labels or markings that were used when they were
shipped pressurized.
Transportation Guidelines
While the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has specifically approved avalanche airbags
with pressurized cylinders for airline travel, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) does not
allow them. If you are traveling in countries outside of North America where refills are not available,
contact your airline in advance for permission to check through your pressurized Float cylinder. If
permission is granted, then pack the pressurized cylinder in your checked baggage. Make sure it is
packed with the following document: www.backcountryaccess.com/IATAdoc
If you are traveling to or from North America, then TSA will not allow your pressurized cylinder on
board. Discharge the compressed air cylinder before entering the airport. Once empty, unscrew the
cylinder head from the cylinder and put both in re-sealable plastic bags. Carry them through the TSA
security checkpoint so they are visible to TSA personnel. Afterward, the cylinder head can be screwed
back on the cylinder by hand. When you reach your destination, locate a Float retailer or refill center
and exchange or refill your empty cylinder. For a list of Float refill/exchange locations, visit our site at
www.backcountryaccess.com/refillcenters
BCA will also ship charged demo cylinders to your destination for you. Contact our customer service
department to make arrangements ([email protected]).
Maintenance / Shipping and Travel
7
6
56
55

14
Certifications and Markings
The following marks can be found on Backcountry Access Float avalanche airbags.
Backcountry Access Float avalanche airbags are covered under U.S. patent: #7,878,141.
Foreign patents pending.
The CE mark of conformity indicates that Backcountry Access and this product meet
the requirements of the Personal Protective Equipment Directive (89/686/EEC).
The Pi mark of conformity indicates that Backcountry Access and this product meet
the requirements of ADR/RID and TPED (Directive 2010/35/EU).
TÜV SÜD: a globally recognized testing, inspection, and certification organization.
TÜV Süd Product Service GmbH
Ridlerstr. 21
D-80339 Munich
Germany
Float 18:
Pack volume: 18 l (1090 cu in) Weight: 6.5 pounds (2948 g)
Float 30:
Pack volume: 30 l (1831 cu in) Weight: 8 pounds (3629 g)
Float 36:
Pack volume: 36 l (2197 cu in) Weight: 7.7 pounds (3492 g)
Airbag volume: 150 liters Cylinder/cylinder head: Weight: 385 g/206 g Volume: 290 ml
System: Tensile strength >3000 N Operating temperature range –30*C to 55*C (-22*F to 130*F)

15
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
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.
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 close 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: While shoveling might seem elementary, it usually consumes
the majority of time during an avalanche beacon rescue. For best results,
start shoveling just downhill of the probe. Make your hole one “wingspan”
wide. In burials deeper than one meter, excavate downhill about 1.5
times the burial depth. For more advanced shoveling techniques,
see our website: www.backcountryaccess.com/shoveling.
avalanche path
20m20m
single searcher
search path
multiple searchers
search paths
40m 40m
˚˝˝
CM CM
1.5 x
burial depth
Avalanche Rescue

16
16
Airbag
Beingurtschlaufe
Isolierung für das Trinksystem
(nicht in die Float 18)
Auslösegriff
Beingurt 119
Basis-Komponenten
12

17
Hüftgurttaschen 10
Airbagfach
Kompressionsriemen
Schaufelstiel- und Sondenfach
Schaufelblattfach
Helmtragesystem
Helmtragesystem
Ausgekleidetes Skibrillenfach
Diagonaler Skihalteriemen
Diagonaler Skihalteriemen
Basis-Komponenten
Float 30
Snowboard-Befestigungsriemen
(Befestigung separat erhältlich)

18
18
Basis-Komponenten
Float 18
Hüftgurttaschen 10
Helmtragesystem
Helmtragesystem
Fächer für Schaufelstiel und Sonde
Airbagfach
Diagonaler Skihalteriemen
Diagonaler Skihalteriemen
Snowboard-Befestigungsriemen
(Befestigung separat erhältlich)

19
19
Hüftgurttaschen
Airbagfach
Ski/Snowboard
Kompressionsgurt
Ski/Snowboard
Kompressionsgurt
Helmtragesystem
Helmtragesystem
Ausgekleidetes Skibrillenfach
Ski/Snowboard
Kompressionsgurt
Skihalteriemen
Basis-Komponenten
Float 36
10
Riemen für Eispickel
Schlaufen für Eispickel
Aufbewahrungsfach
für Helmhalterung
Schlaufe für Skihaltegurt

20
Warum brauche ich einen Lawinenairbag?
Die Verhinderung oder die Minimierung der Verschüttungstiefe ist der Schlüssel zur Reduktion
der Anzahl der Lawinentoten. Und zwar deshalb, da bei einer Lawinenrettung die meiste Zeit auf
das Ausgraben des Opfers verwendet wird. Ein Airbag ist konstruiert um Sie an - oder nahe - der
Oberfläche zu halten und damit die Ausgrabezeit zu minimieren.
Wie kann ein Airbag-Rucksack die Verschüttungstiefe reduzieren?
Inverse Segregation heißt der Effekt, aufgrund dessen der Airbag funktioniert. In einer turbulenten
Strömung werden unterschiedlich große Objekte sortiert. Kleinere Objekte werden mit größerer
Wahrscheinlichkeit nach unten sortiert und große Objekte an die Oberfläche. Mit einer Tasse Bohnen
und Erbsen kann der Effekt nachgewiesen werden. Beim horizontalen Schütteln des Gemisches
erscheinen die dicken Bohnen an der Oberfläche, die kleinen Erbsen lagern sich am Boden der
Schüssel ab. Mit dem Float Airbag wird der Nutzer ein „großer Brocken“ in den ihn umgebenden
Teilen beim Abgang einer Lawine. Der Float nutzt komprimierte Luft aus einer Druckluftflasche
um das Volumen des Nutzers stark zu vergrößern und reduziert so die Verschüttungstiefe oder
verhindert gar die Verschüttung. Damit steigen die Chancen zu Überleben.
Haftungsbeschränkung
Das Float Airbag System ist konstruiert um Ihre Überlebenschancen bei einem Lawinenabgang zu
erhöhen. Und zwar durch die Reduktion der Wahrscheinlichkeit verschüttet zu werden. Der Float
muss – wie in diesem Manual beschrieben - korrekt verwendet werden. Mindestens einmal jährlich
eine Probeauslösung durchführen. Bitte ändern Sie kein Teil des Produkts und führen Sie keine
Maßnahme durch, die nicht in diesem Manual beschrieben ist.
Ihr Float Airbag kann keine Lawinen verhindern oder das Überleben in jedem Fall garantieren.
Obwohl der Airbag in gewisser Weise vor Verletzungen schützt, kann kein Airbag-System
vollständig alle mögliche Verletzungen verhindern. Jeder Airbag muss in Verbindung mit einem
Verschüttetensuchgerät, einer Schaufel, einer Sonde und einem Helm verwendet werden, um
maximale Überlebenschancen zu bieten. Genau wie andere Lawinennotfallausrüstung darf der
Airbag nicht dazu führen, ein höheres Risiko einzugehen.
Sie haben in eine Notfallausrüstung investiert. Sie sollten auch Zeit und Aufwand investieren, um
die notwendigen Fähigkeiten zu erwerben, die Lawinengefahr zu reduzieren, bevor Sie im freien
Skiraum unterwegs sind. Nehmen Sie an einem Lawinenkurs teil, üben Sie die Rettung im Notfall
und halten Sie Augen und Ohren in den Bergen offen. Gefahren vermeiden ist der beste Schutz!
Garantie
Der Hersteller, Backcountry Access Inc. (BCA), gewährt für drei Jahre ab dem Zeitpunkt des Kaufs
im Einzelhandel Garantie auf die Verarbeitung und die Bauteile des Produkts. Alle defekten Teile
werden repariert oder kostenlos ersetzt, einschließlich der Arbeitsleistungen des Herstellers. Diese
Garantie gilt nicht für Schäden an der Ware, welche durch unsachgemäße Handhabung oder
Funktionsprinzip / Haftungsbeschränkung / Garantie