Stay out of backcountry if you are inexperienced, say rescuers

The Friday to close out 2021 is filled with sunshine and clear skies, which may be tempting for some who are itching to get outdoors.

But search and rescue crews are urging caution, warning you not to go into the backcountry unless you really know your stuff.

“No matter how many times we put the message out there that you’ve got to be prepared, you’ve got to know what you’re doing, read the conditions, tell somebody where you’re going, it always ends up some group is out there rescuing somebody,” explained Ridge Meadows Search and Rescue manager Rick Laing.

“Sometimes these are just pure accidents. Somebody may take a slip and twist an ankle or something like that, sometimes you can’t prevent those. But people really, really need to be cautious when they’re out in the backcountry.”

Laing says the area his crew typically won’t see too many people venturing into the outdoors this time of year, due to many park closures. However, he says the messaging is the same across the board.

He warns COVID-19 is also something to consider, explaining many crews have had to take more precautions. That, he notes, can result in delayed response times.

Related Articles: 

• 4 people, 2 dogs partially buried by avalanche rescued by Nelson SAR

• Missing backcountry skier on Mt. Seymour rescued in time for Christmas

• Hiker and his dogs rescued after getting stuck on Grouse Mountain

• North Shore hikers rescued after cold night on Mount Seymour

Even in the absence of flurries, conditions can be challenging on some of the local trails, with snow, ice, and cold temperatures for example.

“You get out into the backcountry and it gets darker quicker than it does when you’re in town because of the tree canopy, you can be in valleys and the sun will go down a lot quicker. The weather can change, the temperature drops drastically once you get up, and if you’re not prepared — especially in these temperatures and these conditions — people can die,” Laing said frankly.

“The line between being cold and hypothermic is only a couple of degrees.”

If you are still planning on heading into the backcountry, you are reminded to take all the necessary precautions and to plan ahead. It’s recommended you head back early, before sundown.

This time of year, you’re also urged to check the avalanche forecast, know what the danger ratings are, and understand what they mean.

“And have the skills and the equipment to venture out into that type of terrain,” Laing added.