Safety Disclaimer

1. Inherent Risks of Backcountry Activities

Backcountry and alpine activities expose participants to numerous hazards that cannot be eliminated, including but not limited to:

• Avalanches: Unpredictable snow slides that can bury, injure, or kill
• Terrain Hazards: Cliffs, crevasses, tree wells, rocks, and other obstacles
• Weather: Rapid changes in temperature, visibility, wind, and precipitation
• Altitude: Altitude sickness, hypothermia, frostbite, and exhaustion
• Equipment Failure: Binding releases, broken skis, GPS errors
• Human Error: Poor decision-making, overestimation of abilities, group dynamics
• Remoteness: Delayed rescue, lack of communication, isolation

These risks exist regardless of any technology, training, or experience level.

2. Limitations of the Alpaka Maps Application

2.1 Information Accuracy

Alpaka Maps provides informational tools to assist with backcountry planning and navigation. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, reliability, or timeliness of any information displayed, including:

• Slope Angle Analysis: Calculated from elevation data that may contain errors or lack sufficient resolution
• Avalanche Forecasts: Provided by third-party avalanche centers and may not reflect current conditions
• Weather Data: Forecasts are inherently uncertain and conditions change rapidly in mountains
• Map Data: May be outdated, incomplete, or inaccurate in certain areas
• GPS Positioning: Subject to satellite availability, terrain interference, and device limitations
• Elevation Data: Resolution and accuracy varies by region

2.2 Technical Limitations

• GPS signals may be unreliable or unavailable in certain terrain
• Battery life may be affected by cold temperatures
• Offline maps may not include the most recent updates
• The app may malfunction, crash, or become unavailable
• Device screens may be difficult to read in bright sunlight or during precipitation

2.3 Not a Substitute for Proper Training

Alpaka Maps is NOT a substitute for:

• Formal avalanche safety education (e.g., AIARE, CAA, SLF courses)
• Companion rescue training with transceiver, probe, and shovel
• Professional mountain guide services when appropriate
• Paper maps and compass navigation skills
• Years of backcountry experience and terrain knowledge
• Sound judgment and conservative decision-making

3. User Responsibilities

By using Alpaka Maps, you agree that you are solely responsible for:

• Obtaining proper avalanche safety training before entering avalanche terrain
• Carrying appropriate safety equipment (transceiver, probe, shovel, first aid)
• Checking current avalanche bulletins from official sources before every tour
• Making your own assessment of terrain, snowpack, and weather conditions
• Verifying all information from multiple independent sources
• Making conservative decisions when conditions are uncertain
• Turning back when conditions exceed your abilities or comfort level
• Informing others of your plans and expected return time
• Carrying backup navigation tools (paper map, compass)
• Ensuring your device is charged and protected from the elements

4. Assumption of Risk

BY DOWNLOADING, INSTALLING, OR USING ALPAKA MAPS, YOU EXPRESSLY:

• Acknowledge and understand the inherent risks of backcountry activities
• Assume full responsibility for your own safety and the consequences of your decisions
• Agree that you are using the application at your own risk
• Release Alpaka Maps from any liability for injury, death, or property damage
• Acknowledge that information in the app may be inaccurate or incomplete
• Agree not to rely solely on the app for navigation or safety decisions

5. Third-Party Data and Services

Alpaka Maps integrates data from various third-party providers. We do not control and are not responsible for:

• The accuracy or availability of avalanche forecasts from regional avalanche centers
• Weather data from meteorological services
• Map data from OpenStreetMap, swisstopo, or other providers
• Satellite imagery from various sources
• Any delays, interruptions, or errors in third-party data

Always consult official sources directly for the most current information.

6. Limitation of Liability

TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW:

• ALPAKA MAPS IS PROVIDED "AS IS" WITHOUT ANY WARRANTIES
• WE DISCLAIM ALL LIABILITY FOR ANY INJURY, DEATH, OR DAMAGE ARISING FROM USE OF THE APPLICATION
• WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR DECISIONS MADE BASED ON INFORMATION IN THE APP
• OUR LIABILITY SHALL NOT EXCEED THE AMOUNT PAID FOR THE APPLICATION

7. Emergency Contacts

In case of emergency, contact local rescue services immediately:

• Switzerland: REGA 1414 / Police 117
• Austria: Alpine Emergency 140 / Euro Emergency 112
• Germany: Mountain Rescue 112
• France: PGHM 112
• Italy: CNSAS 118 / Euro Emergency 112
• European Emergency Number: 112

Know the emergency numbers for your specific region before heading out.

8. Recommended Safety Resources

We encourage all users to pursue proper education:

• Avalanche Courses: AIARE, CAA, SLF, DAV, SAC certified programs
• Official Avalanche Bulletins: SLF (Switzerland), EAWS (Europe), avalanche.org (North America)
• Equipment Training: Regular transceiver practice and rescue drills
• Professional Guidance: Consider hiring certified mountain guides

9. Contact

For questions about this disclaimer, please contact us:

Alpaka Maps
Email: hello@alpakamaps.com