The Province of British Columbia is urging backcountry enthusiasts to take additional time to plan and prepare this winter with search and rescue calls increasing amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the B.C. government said that it has seen an increase in the number of people enjoying the outdoors, which has triggered a “persistent rise” of ground search and rescue calls.
“People are getting stuck or lost, and we’re finding they’re unprepared for the elements or haven’t familiarized themselves with their route,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General.
“This can be dangerous, not only for the people who are in distress, but also for the search and rescue crews deployed to help.”
According to the Province, rescue crews have been deployed for nearly 1,600 missions. The government highlights that this means ground search and rescue (GSAR) crews have responded to more than 300 additional callouts compared to the same period in 2019 and 2018, which had 1,265 and 1,236 deployments, respectively.
“Preparedness is the first step when considering heading out into the elements,” said Jennifer Rice, Parliamentary Secretary for Emergency Preparedness. “Don’t let an adventure turn into an emergency. Instead, research your route, look at the forecast, pack appropriately and leave a trip plan.”
BC AdventureSmart, an outdoor safety and prevention program, stresses that it is important to know your limits, dress for the conditions and bring extra layers in case you get lost.
Experts advise backcountry enthusiasts to understand the terrain and conditions of the area they are travelling, as well as to check out weather forecasts.
With winter settling in, AdventureSmart is also advising to consider seasonal-specific sport gear – such as microspikes – in addition to the essentials.
“We want people to be aware of the additional risk out there,” said Chris Kelly, president, BC Search and Rescue Association. “The risk is not only being unprepared for the outdoors, but also exposing our professional volunteers to COVID-19 during callouts. Our members risk life and limb to keep people safe, and that risk is compounded by the pandemic. We’re imploring everyone playing in the B.C. backcountry to play it safe – for their sake and the sake of our dedicated crews and their families.”
In July 2020, the B.C. government committed $6-million to fund GSAR groups throughout the province starting in 2022-23. This, on top of annual operational funding, will ensure GSAR volunteers with appropriate tools and training can continue to provide this vital service throughout the province.
Graham Cox
