The success of the RECCO® system hinges on operation of the RECCO® detector. It is with this avalanche rescue tool that organizations are able to locate individuals equipped with RECCO reflectors. This portable device is not intended for self-rescue applications, but in the hands of trained searchers it enables efficient location of an avalanche burial when the victim is wearing a reflector. The detectors, which are positioned at convenient locations on the mountain, are operated by area ski patrols, helicopter skiing companies and search-and-rescue outfits.

The RECCO detector is directional, which means the audio signal increases when pointed directly at the reflector. This major operational benefit eliminates the need to follow a flux line into the burial. After the initial signal is received, the RECCO detector leads the operator in a direct line to the victim, increasing precision and saving precious search time. This directional characteristic also allows for an exact location of the burial in the fine search stage, significantly reducing the amount of probing required for a successful find.

A transmitter and receiver are the main working parts of the unit. The current detector has evolved significantly and now weighs only 1.6 kilograms (3.5 pounds). At this reduced weight, it is extremely portable and can be easily operated in rough terrain or harsh conditions. Its simple-to-use components include an on-off switch, volume regulator, battery and socket charger. The self-contained unit can be used at full power for three to four hours of search time before it needs to be recharged.

The range of the detector is a complex calculation of many variables including moisture content of snow, direction of burial and orientation of the RECCO detector to the buried reflector. The maximum range of the system is 200 meters through air and 30 meters through snow. A 20-meter corridor, 10 on each side, is recommended for the mountain search path, and an angled orientation of the detector to the slope is optimal for the first stage of the search.

The rescue crew can effectively search with the detector whether on foot, on skis or in a helicopter. Searching by helicopter has become a common use of the RECCO detector due to its extensive range through the air. In this situation, the pilot can be wired to hear the signal through his or her headphones, enabling the helicopter to quickly hone in on the burial and saving significant time in an organized rescue. The detector transports easily, loads quickly and also requires no external apparatus, making it ideal for this airborne application.

The RECCO detector does not interfere with transceiver searches, probe lines or avalanche dogs. Yet, since the device occasionally picks up weak signals from electronic devices such as cell phones, portable radios and transceivers at short distances–even when turned off–management of the search party is required to maximize the effectiveness of the system. With adequate training, however, a successful signal sweep can be accomplished with a minimum of separation in a hectic search situation.

Paired with function that does not replace, compete with or negate the effectiveness of other systems, the RECCO detector functions as an ideal complement in any scenario. The detector is light, fast and straightforward in function, allowing it to integrate easily with comprehensive search strategies. Utilized to its full potential, the RECCO detector is an additional tool that provides rescue organizations with one more chance to realize their ultimate goal of a live recovery.