bca FLOAT E2, User Manual

USER MANUAL / ENGLISH

1

 INTRODUCTION

Congratulations on your purchase of the Float E2 Airbag system. 
This manual provides you with information about the function and use of the Float E2 Airbag system. It applies to every backcourntry snowsport 

enthusiast. 
The Float E2 Airbag system is designed to help improve your chances of surviving an avalanche. It must be used correctly, following the guidelines 

in this manual. Do not modify any aspect of this product or perform any operations not described in this manual. 
Please read this manual carefully before you use the device. Pay special attention to the warning notices and strictly adhere to the information within 

the user manual. In order to be able to easily consult this user manual we suggest that you keep it in a convenient location. 
The Float E2 Airbag system is emergency equipment, which under certain conditions can prevent a total burial or minimize burial depth if activated. 

That is the key to reducing avalanche fatalities because the majority of time in an avalanche rescue is spent on excavating the victim. An airbag is 

designed to keep you at or near the surface, minimizing excavation time. It cannot prevent the release of an avalanche or guarantee survival under 

any conditions. An element of deadly risk remains even if the user doesn’t get buried. Every avalanche is absolutely life threatening regardless of any 

equipment. As with other avalanche rescue tools, your airbag should not promote taking more risks.
In the event of an avalanche, the user must tug on the trigger handle in order to activate the inflation: this inflates the 162 liter avalanche airbag 

within 3 seconds.
The Float E2 Airbag system concept is based on the physical principle of inverse segregation. This is a phenomenon whereby, given a uniformly 

moving mass of particles, the smaller particles sink downwards and the larger ones float to the surface. The inflated airbag increases the victim’s 

volume and greatly amplifies this inverse segregation effect. The avalanche backpack helps prevent total burial in the snow. The airbag’s shape 

protects the back and the head of the user. Moreover, the rounded shape gives optimal float efficiency on the avalanche and the bright airbag color 

helps rapid localization.
Any airbag must be used in conjunction with a beacon, shovel, probe, and helmet to increase your chance of survival. In addition to these rescue 

tools, you should acquire the necessary skills to avoid avalanche situations before heading into the backcountry. Take an avalanche safety course, 

practice with your equipment, and plan your route according to the regional avalanche forecast.

4

Carefully read and follow all the instructions. Failure to follow these instructions and warnings may result in death or serious personal injury.

• Before taking the Float E2 Airbag into the field, inspect all points described in this user manual and inspect the condition of the system’s safety straps and fastenings.      
• Avalanches are always life threatening, no matter what equipment is deployed.
• The intended and reasonably foreseeable use of this backpack is solely: skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing. It cannot be used in water.
• The purpose of the Float E2 Airbag system is to reduce the likelihood of burial during an avalanche. The Float E2 Airbag system cannot prevent  avalanches from 
occurring. Total burial may still occur during use of an avalanche backpack.
• You must not take more risks simply because you are wearing a Float E2 Airbag system. A hazard is best avoided by avoiding hazardous situations. 
• The Float E2 Airbag system does not replace conventional avalanche rescue equipment: transceivers, shovels and probes should always be taken on backcountry tours.
• Backcountry Access Inc. and Alpride SA cannot be held responsible for injuries caused by an avalanche involving its Float E2 Airbag system.
• The waist belt and leg strap must be worn to ensure the backpack stays in its intended position in the event of an avalanche.
• To reduce the likelihood of inadvertent inflation, store the trigger handle zipped in the shoulder strap when you or others could be harmed by the system such as when on 
chairlifts, gondolas, helicopters, buses, trains, cars, etc.
• Fold the airbag according to the instructions. Improper folding may prevent proper opening of the airbag, can lead to malfunctioning, and can damage the backpack. 
• When packing the airbag, make sure that nothing can tear or damage the airbag, inflator system and its fabric cover. Also make sure that the
airbag can open up freely.
• Only the airbag and compressor are meant to be stored in the airbag compartment and compressor pocket. Never store any additional items in these compartments; 
items may prevent the airbag from deploying.
• Do not submerge the system in water.
• The Float E2 Airbag system must stay clean at all times. In case of a soiled inflator system, the function of the airbag system is not guaranteed.
• Never attempt to alter or repair the system. Any unauthorized work or alterations will void the warranty.
• Practice deploying the airbag before the new season starts, at least once a year, and after the backpack has been exposed to moisture / wet weather. Check its condition, 
allow it to dry and only when it is completely dry fold it back together again. Practicing deploying the airbag will give you a feel  for the amount of force you need to apply to 
the trigger. In the event of a real avalanche, you will then be able to deploy it correctly and intuitively. Be careful not to endanger other people when practicing the activation 
of the airbag.
• Do not use the Float E2 Airbag with unauthorized carrying systems (backpack, vest, etc.).
• When the Float E2 Airbag system is on or off, it has no influence on avalanche beacons. When it is inflating it could interfere with beacons.
• Avalanche beacons are very sensitive to electrical and magnetic influences. To mitigate any interference, carry the beacon on the front side of your body to increase the 
distance between the Float E2 compressor and the beacon.
• When not in use, keep the system in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Except as set forth below, children must not use or play with the Float E2 Airbag.
• The Float E2 Airbag system may be used by children over the age of 8, persons with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or persons with a lack of 
experience and knowledge only if they (1) clearly understand the hazards involved in entering avalanche terrain after reading this manual, (2) use the Float E2 Airbag 
system under direct supervision, and (3) are provided complete and accurate instruction concerning safe and proper use of the Float E2 Airbag system.