Snowmobiler dead, 2 skiers rescued in separate B.C. backcountry emergencies

Police in southeastern British Columbia are warning backcountry users to be ready for emergencies after a snowmobiler was killed and two skiers had to be rescued in separate incidents in the Rockies this week.

RCMP in the Golden-Field detachment say the death happened on Jan. 21 when a snowmobile driven by a 24-year-old man went off trail, down a steep embankment, and hitsome trees.

The man, part of a six-person group returning from a day of sledding in the Frigate Mountain area,died at the scene, police said.

It took hours for arescue team to get to theremote location north of Golden. The victim's body was taken out early on Jan. 22.

Later that day, two backcountry skiers activated an emergency signal in the Emerald Peak area of Yoho National Park after getting stranded on a cliff, say police.

Rescuers were able to get to one skier that night, while the second person was picked up by helicopter on Jan. 23.

Police are warning backcountry users to be properly prepared with emergency gear and tracking devices before heading out.

Avalanche Canada is showing avalanche danger ratings of moderate to high across many parts of the province.