Fewer deaths so far on BC mountains
Posted January 19, 2013 9:40 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – There has been only one avalanche death in BC this season, one of the lowest totals in years.
This season’s total is well below the yearly average of 14 deaths from slides.
The Canadian Avalanche Centre‘s Penny Goddard believes people are getting the message to stay safe.
“We do know that over the past three years the number of avalanche fatalities has been below the ten year average. Backcountry use is on the rise, and what we think it means is the increase in education is paying off.”
But she admits this winter the conditions have also been favourable.
“Some seasons we have a combination of weather and snowpack sectors that make the snowpack particularly dangerous. In a general sense this season hasn’t been a bad snowpack in most areas.”
Today also kicks of Avalanche Awareness Days, with training events planned at Whistler, Garibaldi and Mount Seymour throughout the weekend.
Here are some valuable tips:
- Sign up for an avalanche skills training course – a list of instructors and courses.
- Plan ahead – before you head outdoors be sure to leave a trip plan with someone and stick to that plan.
- Having the proper equipment is essential – ensure it’s in working order and practise with it before heading into the backcountry. More information on safety equipment is available here.
- Winter conditions in B.C.’s backcountry can change rapidly.
