Avalanche: The White Death

95% of persons caught in avalanches trigger it themselves, often through reckless behavior that puts not only them but rescue teams and others at risk. Avalanche: The White Death, the latest in National Geographic's recent "forces of nature" TV specials (including Killer Waves, Cyclone, Volcano!, Asteroids, and Nature's Fury) explores the factors that contribute to avalanches, looks at rescue techniques and offers personal safety tips, and includes historical footage and interviews with survivors and eyewitnesses. Filled with the stunning photography that has become the NG's trademark, this film offers spectacular sequences of natural avalanches, as well as those set off by experts. Viewers will see black and white stills and footage chronicling the 1914 Wellington, Washington disaster which killed 96 people, as well as learn about some modern day tragedies and near-misses. Essential viewing for backcountry winter sports enthusiasts, and fascinating for everyone else (although some sequences might be too frightening for younger viewers), this is recommended. (L. Stevens)