B.C. has over 1,600 search and rescue (SAR) incidents annually, with 80 SAR groups, consisting
of 2,500 volunteers responding to those incidents.
To help prevent the number of incidents outdoors, SilverStar Mountain Resort is hosting BC AdentureSmart this weekend.
Search and Rescue Prevention will be promoted to skiers, boarders and outdoor enthusiasts Saturday and Sunday at the Vernon ski hill from 9 a.m.to 3 p.m. Then BC AdventureSmart will be delivering the Survive Outside Program to the Vernon and District Immigration Society Services Monday.
“No matter what outdoor activity you are planning, be prepared,” said Sandra Riches, executive director and B.C. coordinator. “Follow the three Ts—trip planning, training, and taking the essentials.”
See also: Three Shuswap snowmobilers stranded near Sicamous rescued on New Year’s Day
Whether alpine or backcountry skiing, snowmobiling or snowshoeing, AdventureSmart offers the following tips:
- Alpine resorts are bordered by uncontrolled wilderness areas. Respect the boundary lines and
don’t ski out of bounds. Make sure you know the Alpine Responsibility Code and learn about the
danger of tree wells.
- Skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling in backcountry areas means severe weather and avalanches are real hazards. You and
everyone in your group must be self-sufficient—carrying all the proper gear (transceiver, shovel,
and probe) and have avalanche training.
See related: Truckers stuck on Highway 1 due to storm
There are currently high avalanche danger regions in the South Columbia (Monashee), North Columbia (Revelstoke) and Glacier National Park.
AdventureSmart has an online trip planner, which all outdoor enthusiasts are urged to fill out prior to any trip. Visit adventuresmart.ca.
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