North Shore Rescue warns outdoor enthusiasts to stay out of backcountry

North Shore Search and Rescue is warning outdoor enthusiasts of all levelsto stay out of the backcountryfor the time being after an avalanche warning was issued for the North Shore.

"Going outside of and under the ropes right now is a life and death decision," said Doug Pope, search manager with the volunteer rescue group.

"We can't go out and put our rescuers at risk to go into these gullies that are verydangerous for the public and our rescuers."

According to avalanche forecasters more than 100 centimetres of snow has fallen in the area overthe past week.

It's led to ideal skiing and snowboarding conditions but thatamount of fresh powder has also resulted in an elevated risk fora slide.

Mountain users arenow being askedtofollow existing guidelines.

"If you stay inside the boundaries,you're going to have a perfectly safe experience," said ErikBowkett, safety manager with Grouse Mountain."But if you choose to go beyond, you need to be very prepared because the avalanche conditions are high.

GrantHelgeson, senior avalanche forecaster with Avalanche Canada expects the risk to diminish quickly but until then, advisescaution.

"The overall avalanche danger will come down but the next dayMonday, Tuesday,Iwould expect human triggered avalanches to remain possible," said Helgeson.

He saysbackcountry users should checkavalanche bulletinsbefore heading out.