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BC Coroners Service urges proper preparation for backcountry outings

The BC Coroners Serviceis encouraging all those going out into the backcountry to take special care

Avalanche season is reaching its peak in British Columbia.

The BC Coroners Service (BCCS) is encouraging all those going out into the backcountry – be it on skis, snowboards or snowmobiles – to take special care to ensure their own safety and that of others.

The BCCS, working with the Canadian Avalanche Centre (CAC) and Emergency Management BC (EMBC), has found that over the past several winters, avalanche awareness has been improving. A higher proportion of backcountry users are carrying essential avalanche safety equipment-transceivers, shovels and probes. Avalanche airbag packs are highly effective when worn/deployed properly (including the leg-strap).

However, many people still have not taken enough training to use that equipment with maximum effectiveness. A person buried in an avalanche can suffocate in minutes – long before help can arrive – so the ability to perform quick and effective self-rescue and companion rescue is vital.

Information about training courses is provided through the CAC. On the CAC website at www.avalanche.ca, you will find a basic online course, as well as information on introductory and advanced Avalanche Skills Training courses.

This training is essential for anyone planning to venture into the backcountry in winter.