Tumbler Ridge, B.C.- RCMP are reminding people to prepare for the worst, if heading out to the back country.

Two Tumbler Ridge sledders are home, safe and sound,  after  running into some difficulties  on the weekend.

The two had departed Tumbler Ridge at 9am on Friday, January 3rd,  and headed for the Corelodge area, a well known location for snowmobiling. After they failed to return home by 9:30pm the RCMP were notified and local Search and Rescue were sent to the area.

Search and Rescue crews from Tumbler Ridge, Fort St. John, and Prince George assisted with the lengthy search which carried over to Saturday January 4th. With the use of a helicopter, the missing sledders were located and by mid afternoon they were brought out safely in good health and uninjured.

The men advised that while sledding they had gone over a ridge and became stuck in deep powder. They were unable to depart the area, even on foot. Knowing that they would be spending the night, they built a fire to keep warm and waited for help.

RCMP are cautioning those who are exploring the backcountry to be prepared;

• Plan and be prepared for anything, including staying the night in the wilderness.
• Bring along a survival kit, first aid kit, an avalanche beacon, probe, shovel, warm clothing, and basic tool kit.
• Leave an itinerary with someone, and don't go alone.
• Never rely on other snowmobilers to bail you out. Ride within your limits and ride with respect to the area you are riding in.