Brewery teams up with North Shore Rescue to promote backcountry safety
Posted February 20, 2022 1:52 pm.
Last Updated February 20, 2022 2:07 pm.
Bridge Brewing Co. in North Vancouver has teamed up with North Shore Rescue in an effort to encourage backcountry safety awareness.
Over the course of the winter, many skiers and snowboards in B.C.’s backcountry have become stuck, injured, and even passed away due to a lack of readiness.
Often, getting stuck in the backcountry leads to a hard time seeking help and once help is on the way, it could take hours before the rescue is complete.
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Leigh Stratton, director of consumption for Bridge Brewing Co. says their new beer cans are one way to get a message across to backcountry adventurers.
“When you get home safely, you’re able to enjoy a beer, and this is a way that we’re able to reach a large demographic. That’s the most important thing, it’s that they’re getting the message out. You need to leave details with a family or friend of where you’re going; when you’re expected to be back so that if the North Shore search and rescue team have to go out and find you — they’ve got a starting point.”
The limited edition cans display safety tips and and warnings, and Stratton says whether people enjoy the beverage before or after their snow trip they are consuming the message.
I decided to do a a light hearted story this time around. @bridgebrewcrew and @NSRescue have teamed up to create the “Trip Plan” I.P.A. Why you may ask? inscribed on cans are safety tips for those planning on going into the back country. @CityNewsVAN
— Azzaya Khan (@AzzayaK) February 20, 2022
However, Stratton says although the beers are not meant to be enjoyed on the slopes, she hopes they act as an incentive to be safe and return home to enjoy a drink after a long day.
“The message is to enjoy the beer the night before, make sure you’re making your plans appropriately and you’re leaving details of your backcountry hike with friends and family. Keep the beer in the fridge and then enjoy when you safely return.”
In January, Avalanche Canada warned of increased avalanche risk in the backcountry, however the warning was not enough of a deterrent to prevent many skiers and snowboarders from getting struck and having to be rescued by NSR.
As for the new partnership between the brewery and the rescue team, both parties hope the effort will educate backcountry folks on safety tips and prevent rescue missions.
– With files from Azzaya Khan
