Black Diamond Recalls PIEPS DSP Avalanche Transceivers Due to Risk of Loss of Emergency Communications; One Death Reported

What was recalled

In April 2021, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant safety recall involving avalanche transceivers manufactured by Black Diamond under the brand name PIEPS. This action affects specific models of the PIEPS DSP series, which are critical electronic devices worn by skiers and backcountry enthusiasts to facilitate rescue operations in the event of an avalanche burial. The recall encompasses all units of the PIEPS DSP Pro, the PIEPS DSP Pro Ice, and the PIEPS DSP Sport Avalanche Transceivers. These devices are designed to be carried on the body, typically within a harness, allowing other skiers to locate a buried individual by detecting the signal emitted by the transceiver.

To determine if your specific device is part of this recall, you must verify both the model name and the unique model number printed on the equipment. The affected models include the PIEPS DSP Sport Avalanche Transceiver with Model Number PP1128040000ALL1, the PIEPS DSP Pro Avalanche Transceiver with Model Number PP1127710000ALL1, and the PIEPS DSP Pro Ice Avalanche Transceiver with Model Number PP112770000ALL1. You can find the model name, such as DSP02, on the inside of the battery door of the unit itself. The complete model number is typically located on the exterior of the original packaging. If you no longer have the box, check the back of the device where the manufacturer’s name, PIEPS, is printed in black letters along with the specific model designation.

The transceivers involved in this recall are single-size units featuring an LCD display and a slider switch that allows users to toggle between Off, Search, and Send modes. They are powered by a battery and come with a black neoprene carrying case for storage. The exterior casing of these devices is available in three color variations: green/yellow, black/yellow, or clear/yellow. While the recall notice does not specify the exact total number of units sold globally, it notes that Black Diamond has received 65 reports of the transceivers switching modes unexpectedly while in use, indicating a widespread potential for this defect across the affected inventory.

These products were distributed through various retail channels and online platforms, with consumers urged to check their devices against the specific model numbers listed above. The scope of the recall is broad because the defect is inherent to the design of these specific DSP models rather than a manufacturing error in a single batch. If you own any of the listed PIEPS DSP models, it is crucial to identify them immediately, as they are intended for life-saving purposes and must function with absolute reliability in emergency situations.

The hazard, explained

At the heart of this recall is a subtle but critical failure in how the Black Diamond PIEPS avalanche transceivers manage their operational modes. These devices are designed to help skiers and snowboarders locate one another if someone is buried under snow after an avalanche. To do this, they must reliably transmit a signal that others can detect. However, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified that these specific transceivers can unexpectedly switch from "Send" mode to another mode—such as "Search" or "Off"—while the user is actively skiing and relying on the device.

The physical mechanism behind this malfunction involves the slider switch located on the front of the unit. While the device is intended to stay securely in the "Send" position during use, it does not lock firmly enough to prevent accidental displacement. If the transceiver is not locked or properly installed in a harness, normal movement—such as skiing through rough terrain, falling, or even just the vibration of motion—can cause the slider switch to shift. When this happens, the device stops transmitting its beacon signal. In an emergency situation where seconds count, a transceiver that has silently switched modes is effectively silent to rescuers and companions, rendering it useless when it is needed most.

The consequences of this failure are severe because avalanche rescue relies entirely on the continuous transmission of a signal. When a skier is buried, their companions must use other transceivers in "Search" mode to locate the buried person. If the buried person’s device has unexpectedly switched away from "Send," it will not emit the signal required for others to find them. This loss of emergency communication drastically reduces the chances of survival, as burial time directly correlates with the risk of fatal asphyxiation or trauma. The CPSC notes that this defect has already led to one death and one instance of serious injury (a broken arm) in British Columbia, underscoring the real-world danger posed by this seemingly minor mechanical issue.

This type of hazard is particularly insidious because it can occur without any warning or obvious indication. The user may believe their transceiver is functioning correctly simply because the device appears to be on and the battery is charged. However, the internal state has changed silently due to the loose switch mechanism. Unlike a device that fails completely and shows an error, a mode-switching failure creates a false sense of security. It is a classic example of how a small design flaw in safety-critical equipment can lead to catastrophic outcomes when the environment is unforgiving and the margin for error is zero.

Understanding this mechanism highlights why the remedy focuses not just on replacing the unit, but on providing a hardcase carrying system. This accessory helps secure the transceiver in place, preventing the slider switch from moving accidentally during use. It serves as a physical barrier to the primary cause of the failure, ensuring that the device remains in "Send" mode until the user intentionally changes it. This simple addition addresses the root cause of the hazard by stabilizing the component most prone to accidental displacement.

Who is most at risk

The individuals most immediately and critically at risk from this recall are active backcountry skiers, snowboarders, and mountaineers who rely on the Black Diamond PIEPS DSP series of avalanche transceivers for their safety in remote terrain. These devices are not casual accessories; they are essential life-saving tools used by people who intentionally place themselves in high-consequence environments where avalanches are a genuine and frequent threat. When you are skiing off-piste, venturing into ungroomed mountains, or traversing steep snowpacks, your safety depends on the ability of your companions to find you quickly if you become buried. The users of these specific models—those who own the PIEPS DSP Pro, DSP Pro Ice, and DSP Sport transceivers—are therefore in a precarious position because their primary method of emergency communication is compromised by a design flaw that causes the device to switch modes unexpectedly.

While the technical failure affects any user regardless of age or physical fitness, the consequences are disproportionately severe for those who find themselves in avalanche scenarios. In the context of avalanche survival, time is the most critical factor. Statistics consistently show that burial depth and duration directly correlate with survival rates. A transceiver that fails to transmit a signal due to an unexpected mode switch effectively renders the user invisible to their team’s search equipment. For any skier, this delay can be fatal, but it is particularly dangerous for those who may already be vulnerable due to environmental factors or lack of immediate rescue infrastructure. The recall notice confirms that one death has been reported in British Columbia linked to this issue, underscoring that this is not merely a theoretical inconvenience but a matter of life and death.

Furthermore, the risk extends beyond just the person wearing the faulty device. In group travel scenarios, which are common in backcountry skiing, the failure of one transceiver can disrupt the entire search pattern. If a team member’s device switches from "Send" to "Search" or "Off" without their knowledge, their teammates may waste precious minutes searching for a signal that is not there, while the buried victim remains undetected. This puts the entire group at risk, as confusion and delayed responses in an avalanche zone can lead to secondary collapses or exposure injuries for everyone involved. The 65 reported incidents of unexpected mode switching indicate that this is a widespread issue, meaning any member of the backcountry community who owns these specific models is part of a larger group facing a systemic safety gap.

It is also important to note that users who rely on the physical indicators of the device—such as the slider switch position or the LCD display—may be at risk if they do not frequently verify the mode during their ascent. The hazard exists specifically when the transceiver is not locked or installed in a harness, which suggests that skiers who carry the device loosely or check it infrequently are more likely to encounter the problem without realizing it until it is too late. Therefore, the most vulnerable users are those who trust the mechanical switch alone without implementing additional verification protocols, as the device’s internal logic can override their physical settings unexpectedly.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Before taking any action, it is essential to confirm whether your specific avalanche transceiver is part of this safety notice. Because these devices are critical pieces of safety equipment, accurate identification prevents unnecessary panic while ensuring you do not overlook a potentially dangerous unit. The recall issued by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on April 12, 2021, targets a very specific range of Black Diamond products manufactured under the PIEPS brand. To determine if your device is affected, you need to look at both the physical characteristics of the unit and the precise model numbers printed on the packaging.

First, examine the exterior of your transceiver. The recalled units are designed to be worn by skiers and feature an LCD display along with a slider switch that toggles between Off, Search, and Send modes. Visually, these devices come in one standard size and may have an exterior finish in one of three color combinations: green and yellow, black and yellow, or clear and yellow. You should also look for the manufacturer’s branding; the name "PIEPS" is printed in black letters on the front of the unit, directly above the specific model name. If your device does not display these visual markers, it is likely not part of this recall.

The most definitive way to verify if your transceiver is included is by checking the model numbers. The recall specifically encompasses all PIEPS DSP Pro, DSP Pro Ice, and DSP Sport Avalanche Transceivers. You must match your device against the following exact model numbers found on the outside of the original packaging:

• PIEPS DSP Sport Avalanche Transceiver: Model No. PP1128040000ALL1
• PIEPS DSP Pro Avalanche Transceiver: Model No. PP1127710000ALL1
• PIEPS DSP Pro Ice Avalanche Transceiver: Model No. PP1127700000ALL1

If you have lost the original box, you can find additional verification details on the device itself. Open the battery door of your transceiver to locate the model name "DSP02" printed on the inside. While this internal marking helps confirm the general series of the device, always cross-reference it with the external packaging numbers listed above for absolute certainty. Additionally, note that all recalled units are supplied with a black neoprene carrying case. If your device lacks this specific accessory or does not match the model codes exactly, you may be safe from this particular defect, but if there is any doubt about the model number, it is safest to assume the recall applies until you can verify otherwise with the manufacturer.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you have determined that your avalanche transceiver is part of this recall, the good news is that Black Diamond has established a straightforward and complimentary remedy to address the issue. It is important to understand upfront that this recall does not involve sending the device back for a refund or a direct hardware replacement of the transceiver itself. Instead, the company is providing specific accessories designed to mitigate the identified hazard. Consumers are instructed to contact Black Diamond to receive a free replacement hardcase carrying system along with an updated user guide. These items are intended to be used in conjunction with your existing recalled transceiver, offering a practical way to secure the device and prevent the mode-switching error from occurring during use.

The core of the problem identified in this recall is that the transceivers can unexpectedly switch modes if they are not properly locked or installed in a harness. This malfunction prevents the device from transmitting a signal, which is critical for locating a skier buried in an avalanche. By providing a specialized hardcase carrying system, Black Diamond aims to ensure that the unit remains securely fastened and protected during transit and storage, thereby reducing the likelihood of accidental mode changes. The inclusion of a new user guide is equally vital; it likely contains updated instructions on how to properly lock and install the device within this new carrying system, ensuring that skiers are fully aware of the correct safety protocols.

To initiate this process, you will need to reach out to Black Diamond directly. You can do this by calling their dedicated recall line at 866-306-0865. The support team is available from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mountain Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication, you may send an email to dsprecall@bdel.com. For those who prefer to navigate the issue online, Black Diamond has created a specific page for this recall at https://www.blackdiamondequipment.com/en_US/content/dsp-recall/. You can also access this information by visiting their main website at www.blackdiamondequipment.com and clicking on "Safety Recall" located at the top of the webpage. When you contact them, be prepared to provide the model number of your device, which can be found on the outside of the original packaging, as well as the model name DSP02 located on the inside of the battery door, to verify eligibility.

Please remember that this remedy is specifically designed for the PIEPS DSP Pro, DSP Pro Ice, and DSP Sport models identified in the recall. The free hardcase and guide are provided as a safety measure to complement your current equipment, not as a substitute for it. By taking these steps promptly, you are ensuring that your gear remains reliable and that you stay protected while enjoying winter sports. If you have any questions about the installation or use of the new carrying system, do not hesitate to ask the representatives during your call or email correspondence.

What can happen if you ignore it

When you continue to use a recalled PIEPS DSP avalanche transceiver without addressing the known defect, you are essentially relying on a piece of life-saving technology that may fail at the exact moment you need it most. The core issue is not that the device simply stops working; it is that it switches modes unexpectedly when it is not properly locked or installed in your harness. In the high-stress, adrenaline-fueled environment of backcountry skiing, this silent failure can be catastrophic. If the transceiver switches from "Send" mode to a different state while you are on the mountain, it ceases to transmit its signal. To you, the device might still appear normal, but to your companions scanning for a buried victim, you have effectively vanished from their radar.

The consequences of ignoring this defect extend far beyond mere inconvenience. Avalanche safety is built on the principle of immediate detection and location. When a transceiver fails to transmit, it delays the search process. In an avalanche scenario, every minute counts significantly for survival rates due to the risk of asphyxiation and trauma. If your device does not emit a signal, your partners cannot triangulate your position quickly. This delay transforms a potentially survivable incident into a life-threatening emergency. The reality of this hazard is not theoretical; it has already resulted in tragic outcomes. Black Diamond has confirmed that one death has been reported in connection with this specific defect, alongside other serious injuries including broken bones, all occurring in British Columbia. These are not abstract statistics but real people who trusted their lives to equipment that failed them due to a known design flaw.

Furthermore, the psychological toll of relying on faulty gear can lead to false confidence. Skiers may feel secure wearing the device, unaware that a simple failure to lock it properly could render it useless. This false sense of security is dangerous because it discourages proactive safety checks. If you ignore the recall notice, you are not just keeping an old piece of plastic; you are maintaining a critical vulnerability in your safety chain. The recalled units can switch modes while being worn, meaning that even if you checked it before heading out, a minor adjustment or vibration could cause it to malfunction mid-descent. By ignoring the remedy, you are choosing to accept the risk of severe bodily harm or death rather than taking the simple step of securing the free replacement carrying system and user guide provided by the manufacturer.

Ultimately, the choice to ignore this recall is a choice to gamble with your life and the safety of those around you. The remedy offered—free hardcases and updated guides—is designed specifically to prevent these mode-switching errors. By refusing or delaying action, you leave yourself exposed to the very hazard the recall aims to eliminate. In the backcountry, equipment reliability is non-negotiable. Continuing to use a device known to lose emergency communications under specific, common conditions undermines the entire foundation of avalanche safety protocols. Do not wait for another incident to underscore the urgency of this issue; act now to ensure that your transceiver does its job when it matters most.

Staying safe: broader tips

Avalanche safety is a complex discipline that relies on layers of redundancy, much like the equipment you carry. While recalling defective gear is a critical step in maintaining that safety net, true preparedness extends far beyond having a functioning transceiver. It requires a holistic approach to education, routine maintenance, and situational awareness. The primary defense against an avalanche incident is not just technology, but knowledge. Skiers and snowboarders should prioritize formal avalanche education courses, such as those offered by AIARE or local mountain guides. These programs teach you how to read the snowpack, identify hazardous terrain features, and make better decisions on the mountain before you even put your gear on. No device can replace the judgment of a well-trained observer who knows when conditions are too risky to proceed.

Regular maintenance and pre-trip checks are equally vital components of staying safe. Just as this recall highlights the importance of ensuring your transceiver is locked correctly, you must develop a ritual of checking all your safety tools before every outing. This includes verifying that your beacon has fresh batteries, your probe is fully extended and ready, and your shovel is accessible. Test your beacon in "search" mode to ensure it is transmitting clearly and receiving signals from partners at close range. Do not rely on the device’s internal diagnostics alone; manual verification confirms that the equipment is functioning as intended in real-world conditions. Additionally, stay informed about product recalls by subscribing to alerts from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and checking manufacturer websites regularly. New safety updates or design flaws may emerge after a product has been on the market, and being proactive about these notifications can prevent you from using compromised gear.

Finally, practice makes perfect in an emergency. Regularly rehearse group rescue protocols with your skiing partners until the steps become muscle memory. In a real burial scenario, panic can set in quickly, so knowing exactly who does what—whether it is digging, probing, or managing the beacon search—can save precious minutes. Remember that technology is a tool, not a guarantee. By combining reliable equipment with rigorous education, consistent maintenance, and practiced teamwork, you create a robust safety system that protects you and your group on the mountain.