Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center Director Jeff Thompson says avalanches come in many shapes and sizes.

However, avalanches most often occur on steep slopes over 30 degrees that collect snow that can be easily disturbed.

"That trigger can be a variety of things. It could happen naturally; it could be animals, or it could be humans," Jeff Thompson said.

For those going up to the mountains, looking at the forecast is important before heading to the snow.

Jeff Thompson, who is also the lead forecaster for the Selkirk Cabinet zone, says IPAC puts out a forecast report twice a week.

"Our job is to go into the mountains and analyze these snow layers and different conditions and relay how dangerous and likely avalanches are to the public," Thompson said.

It's also a good idea to take avalanche safety courses before heading up the mountains.

"You learn techniques for identifying hazardous situations, you learn techniques for making good decisions and how to approach slopes safely," Thompson said.

Taking the right equipment to the snow is extremely important.

“Beacon, a shovel, and a probe. those are the three basics, and you need to know how to use those," Thompson said.

An additional tool that can be used in case of getting caught in an avalanche is an airbag backpack, that will help you float to the surface.

Before heading to the snow, practice using your equipment to make sure it is functioning.

For those in Washington and Idaho, both the Northwest Avalanche Center and the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center have more information on avalanche forecast and safety tips to look at before heading out.