Vancouver’s warm weekend prompts avalanche safety reminders

After a blue bird weekend on B.C.’s South Coast, there are warnings from local rescue teams about the risks associated with warming weather, especially in the backcountry.

North Shore Rescue Search Manager Doug Pope says as the weather warms up, the snow is softening and, generally, the avalanche risk goes up.

“People going up into the North Shore mountains and recreating and going up into the snow have to be equipped for travel in the snow and proper safety gear for avalanches and being able to safely stop a slip and fall,” he said.

He adds many hikers and snowshoers have been injured due to improper footwear.

North Shore Rescue responded to a call on Dam Mountain on Jan. 26, 2022 after a hiker slipped and was injured in the snow. (Facebook/NorthShoreRescue)

Pope says people need to have the essentials with them at all times. A first aid kit, extra clothing, and communication tools are all necessary.

“You don’t go too far back in the North Shore mountains [before] you lose cell reception. So being able to call for help is really important and to provide information to responders around your location and your condition,” he said.

Related Articles:

• B.C. and Alberta backcountry users warned of avalanche dangers

• Skier killed by avalanche in Pemberton area

• Special Public Avalanche Warning for southern B.C., western Alberta

There were no reports of any serious rescues over the weekend, but recent tragedies have remained top of mind for many.

On Feb. 5, a series of avalanches came down in the Sea to Sky region near Pemberton. Several people were hurt and a skier was killed.

A special public avalanche warning was in place for many mountains near Vancouver, but according to Emergency Info BC, that was lifted on Sunday.

You can find the latest information on avalanche risks at avalanche.ca

Files from Katarina Szulc