With fresh snow on B.C.’s mountains, the provincial government is urging the public to be safe while enjoying the outdoors.
Those wanting to spend time in the backcountry are urged to be aware of and prepared for potential hazards, such as avalanches.
“Winter in British Columbia offers endless opportunities and I encourage people to take full advantage of our beautiful backcountry,” said Kelly Greene, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness.
“However, mountain adventures come with risks. Before heading out, plan your trip carefully and share your plans with friends or family, make sure you’ve got the right equipment, check Avalanche Canada’s forecast and follow their safety guidance.”
B.C. officials say it is important to stay up to date about snowpack conditions because they can change quickly.
“Avalanche conditions change daily, so it’s important to check the avalanche forecast prior to every trip into the backcountry,” said Ryan Buhler, forecast program manager, Avalanche Canada.
“If you’re planning to be in avalanche terrain, it’s important that you have the training, carry a transceiver, shovel and probe, and that you check and understand the forecast before heading out.”
The B.C. government says you should have all of the necessary gear and the knowledge of how to use it properly before you head out.
“When planning a trip, it’s important to monitor conditions closely up to one week before you leave. Check the Avalanche Canada website for the mountain weather forecast,” said the province.
“Always tell someone where you are going and when you’ll be back, obtain the knowledge and skills you need before heading out, and always carry the essentials and know how to use them. It’s important to know if your planned route travels through or under avalanche terrain.”
Comprehensive avalanche safety information and condition forecasts can be found on Avalanche Canada’s website or on its mobile app.
“The forecast provides people with a current danger rating based on a five-point danger scale and the trend for the next couple of days. It will also indicate where the danger exists and provide advice about what type of terrain to avoid or to seek out under the current conditions,” said the B.C. government.
B.C. has more avalanche deaths per year than any other province in Canada, with about 80 per cent of the country’s avalanche fatalities occurring in the province.
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