When the first concept of the safety airbag ABS system was thought up, the idea was somewhat ingenious. When a German forester was able to escape several avalanches because he was carrying his slain game over his shoulders, the thought occurred to him that a device could be built to replicate the protection the slain animals provided. He began working with balloons and canisters in the hopes of developing a system of avalanche protection. Thus, the ABS airbag system was born. 

The concept was first thought up in the 1970s, however the idea was not further developed until the year 1980. Peter Aschauer came face to face with an avalanche and decided to acquire the patent for his avalanche system airbag. He later formed a company that would begin working on bringing avalanche safety devices to life. The first completely functional airbag module was introduced in 1985 and used a nitrogen fuel system. This gas was used because of its ability to not ice-up when exposed to very low temperatures, and also because it is known to have a high expansion speed. It was not until later on that the concept of the airbag ABS system would be seen as having potential.

The first dual airbag ABS system, which is the type of avalanche air bag safety device still in use today, was developed in 1996. Before 1996, when the concept was introduced, it was not met with a lot of acceptance. Many were under the impression that no other device was needed to protect individuals during an avalanche other than an avalanche receiver. While these transceivers do help in the rescue efforts of those buried in an avalanche, there are times when it is simply not enough.

While the first airbag ABS systems were met with resistance, today they are recognized for being crucial during an avalanche emergency. Those who are caught in an avalanche have only a few seconds to react before they can be swept under the snow. Being equipped with an airbag could help an individual escape a disaster. In fact, it could be the one thing that allows them to walk away from being buried alive. Using this type of airbag, along with an avalanche transceiver, gives added protection at a time when it is much needed.