Prince George, B.C. – The North District RCMP and BC SAR Association are advising the public to use available resources to find out about avalanche conditions and to ensure you are properly prepared before entering backcountry areas this season.

Cst. Lesley Smith, North District Media Relations Officer, says “Before you seek out your thrill for adventure, be sure you are well prepared for the potential dangers that come with playing in snowy mountainous environments.”

This year the weather has been mild, which can cause unpredictable changes to snow packs in certain areas. Check for avalanche conditions with the Canadian Avalanche Association at External link, opens in a new windowwww.avalanche.ca/CAC Bulletin Regions

RCMP and Search and Rescue are also concerned about the misuse of personal trackers.

Brian Lamond, a Search Manager of North Peace Search and Rescue says “Satellite GPS Messengers are great devices for people recreating in the back country and they will definitely save lives. But people need to use them properly. These devices allow location-based communication to friends, family and emergency services. But these trackers only allow one-way messaging. On each of these devices there are three buttons with three very different purposes.” Learn their uses.

Before anyone leaves to the back country, whether for work or recreational purposes, they should have a back-up plan. This plan would be activated when the HELP signal is received by friends, family or work associates.

Remember the Top 10 Essentials to Survive the Outdoors;

·         Use the Right Gear and Equipment

·         Have a Safety Plan and share it with Family

·         Carry a GPS Satellite Unit

·         Emergency First Aid Kit

·         Flashlight

·         Fire Making Kit

·         Extra Clothing

·         Extra food and Water

·         Emergency Shelter

·         Pocket knife

For information on proper planning and having the appropriate equipment under the extreme cold conditions, please check the Adventure Smart program at External link, opens in a new windowwww.adventuresmart.ca.