Safety group preaches planning, training, proper tools for avalanche safety

Advocates for backcountry safety in B.C. say they're surprised by how many people head into remote areas without truly knowing whatawaits them.

On Saturday officials with Adventure Smart B.C., local search and rescue groups, and B.C. Parks talked to peoplesnowshoeing on Mt. Seymouras part of regular engagement and education about avalanche safety.

Marc D'Aquinowith Adventure Smart B.C. says people want to stay safe, but they need to do more.

"Alot of people did not even know today that [the avalanche risk is]high in that backcountry right now," he said. "So there's good risk and if you don't have the training you shouldn't be out there."

There is currentlysignificant avalanche danger across the province according to Avalanche Canada, with many areas above the tree line at high risk.

• Warmer temperatures, rain, loose snow and storms all increase avalanche risk

A week ago a Calgary man died skiing near FernieB.C. died after being caught in an avalanche.

D'Aquino says Adventure Smart B.C.'s mission is to push the 'three Ts' to people wanting to get out into the backcountry.

They are trip planning, proper tools and training.

Tyler Branzonstopped at the engagement event on his way to snowshoe with friends up Dog Mountain near Mt. Seymour for the first time.

He said his group ended up doing more preparation from what he learned.

"Just letting people know where we're going before we head out," he said.

Part of the engagement demonstrated how to properly use signalling devices or beacons if you get trapped in an avalanche.

North Shore Rescue, which conducts more than a hundred rescues every year, is often preachingthe importance of 10 essentials for trips.

They are:

1. Lights.
2. A signalling device.
3. A fire starter.
4. Extra clothes.
5. A pocketknife.
6. Shelter.
7. Water.
8. A first-aid kit
9. A compass or navigation tools such as a GPS.
10. A cellphone.

While officials like D'Aquinoencouragepeople to take training courses, Avalanche Canada does offer an online tutorial.