Practicing avalanche awareness in the backcountry can save a life
By Contributor
As more and more hikers, skiers and snowmobilers venture into the backcountry of B.C., it’s important to remember to play safe and be prepared.
So the movers and shakers in the province urge backcountry enthusiasts to learn more about the necessary outdoor safety tools and techniques that could spare a life.
Outdoor adventurers can help themselves and others by being informed and staying avalanche safe.
Here are some key backcountry tips this avalanche season:
- Take a recognized avalanche skills training course (offered through the Canadian Avalanche Association).
- Have the right equipment with you, practise with your equipment and check conditions before heading out into the backcountry.
- Before you head outdoors, be sure to leave a trip plan with a responsible individual and stick to that trip plan. For a printable copy of a trip plan and to learn more about being safe when getting outdoors, visit: www.adventuresmart.ca
- Take the conditions into account and plan appropriately. Learn about avalanche safety and risks and get the most recent bulletin and weather forecast at: www.avalanche.ca
Every year, approximately 14 people across Canada die in avalanches, and of those, about 65 per cent happen in B.C.
That’s why it’s paramount that outdoor enthusiasts use training and experience to practice safe backcountry travel.
The public controls the risk by choosing where, when and how to travel. Also, when heading into the backcountry, especially on sole ventures, tell friends and family location and time frame.
The government is committed to ensuring that those who venture into B.C.’s backcountry understand the risks and take all necessary precautions. But it’s also important for all recreation enthusiasts to recognize they are taking some measure of personal risk when choosing to venture into the backcountry.
