Everything you want to know about the RECCO® system
Who isn’t familiar with RECCO? More than 900+ rescue services and organisations worldwide work with the system and many brands have provided their gear and apparel with a RECCO reflector. It’s a short introduction of a great addition to the avalanche beacon, shovel and probe when you’re riding in the backcountry.
How does the RECCO System work?
The technology is a two-part system made up of the detector and the reflector. The detector sends out a directional radar signal, and once it hits the reflector the signal is echoed back and directs the rescuer to your location.
The RECCO technology makes you searchable to rescuers in case of an avalanche or if you get lost in the outdoors while hiking, skiing, running or participating in similar activities. Wearing gear equipped with RECCO® reflectors enables rescuers to locate you with either a handheld detector or a Helicopter Detector.
Originally introduced in 1983 as a handheld system for avalanche rescue, RECCO technology has since evolved. With the addition of helicopter detectors, it now covers larger areas more efficiently, making them particularly useful for locating individuals lost all year round.
Detectors are used by rescue professionals worldwide as a standard rescue tool at ski resorts, mountain rescue organizations and helicopterbases across Europe and North America. In total, more than 2200 detectors are placed at more than 900 different locations in 32 countries. A complete list of detector locations can be found at recco.com.
While RECCO reflectors are not a substitute for avalanche transceivers, they provide a reliable backup. Weighing just 4 grams, RECCO reflectors are lightweight and require no power or batteries. Remember to let others know that you are searchable with a RECCO reflector.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the RECCO system protect you from avalanches?
No, of course not. It is a big misunderstanding that avalanches just happen to you by mistake. In the vast majority of cases there is no question of bad luck. In 90-95% of the cases the avalanche is caused by the rider (or someone in the group) himself. The bad news is that we often cause them ourselves, the good news is that you can prevent yourself coming into an avalanche with the right knowledge.
Is the RECCO system a replacement for avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe?
No. It complements this holy trinity of avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe. Never go out alone and never without the right gear when you want to ride off-piste. If you go out alone there is no one who can help you If something happens. In addition, avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe are the ideal tools for your friends to carry out a rescue operation. By alerting the rescue services directly via GSM, they can provide assistance as well. With additional avalanche transceivers, rescue dogs and RECCO detectors, they can quickly search large areas.
What is the range of the RECCO system?
The range of the handheld detector is 80 meters through the air, 20 meters through a snow cover. When searching for avalanche victims, rescue services work in strips of 20 meters (10 meters on the left and 10 meters on the right), making sure they don’t miss anything.
The SAR (Search and Rescue) helicopter detector can search areas at a speed of 100km/h with an search width of appr. 100 metres at 100 metres height.
Do I need to replace batteries with a RECCO® reflector?
No, it is a passive reflector. It reflects a signal. Batteries are not necessary.
Can I use a RECCO reflector instead of an avalanche transceiver?
No, the RECCO reflector is an addition to your avalanche transceiver. Always go out with the holy trinity: avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe.
Can rescue services simultaneously use avalanche transceivers and RECCO detectors during a search operation?
Yes, the systems are complementary to each other and certainly do not get in each other’s way.
Can the RECCO detector be used from a helicopter?
Yes, rescuers use the handheld detectors from helicopters to search larger avalanches or areas where it is too dangerous to be on the ground. The RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector is designed to be carried by a helicopter and to scan large areas fast for a missing person.
Do I need to register?
No you don’t. The RECCO reflector requires no registration or being switched on. Although, let your friends and family know that you do carry a reflector on your next hiking adventure. This information can save precious time in case something happens and a search team need to go look for you.
How do I know if my product is equipped with a RECCO reflector?
The RECCO logo is visible on the outside of your garment, or a RECCO specific hangtag with is included when purchasing your product. If you haven’t planned on investing in new apparel or gear, it is possible to purchase a reflector that can be added to your helmet, backpack or as a belt here.