Get “avy savvy” during Avalanche Awareness Days

Know before you go

“When exploring B.C.’s backcountry, preparedness is key, especially in avalanche-prone areas,” said Sandra. “Before heading out, check avalanche forecasts and familiarize yourself with terrain and weather conditions, and always carry essential gear, including an avalanche transceiver, shovel, and probe—and make sure you know how to use them.”

Sandra also stressed the importance of planning and teamwork.

“Travel with a partner or group and use the 3Ts —Trip Planning, Training, and Taking Essentials. By doing this, we can reduce the burden on B.C.’s 3,400 dedicated search and rescue volunteers, who are always ready to assist in emergencies.”

The Avalanche Canada website provides comprehensive information about avalanche training and safety courses.

“Travelling in the mountains during winter is an incredible experience, but it requires skills and preparation to do it safely,” adds Ryan. “Ideally, that means taking an avalanche skills training course if you plan to venture into avalanche terrain by any mode of travel.”

Know which areas to avoid

There are also a few things to look for to avoid avalanche terrain and enjoy B.C.’s backcountry responsibly.

“Avoid routes that cross through or under established avalanche paths – you can recognize these by gaps in the trees caused by previous avalanches. Also, keep away from steep, open slopes that are bigger than a tennis court—they could produce avalanches large enough to bury you,” said Ryan.

Additionally, it’s important to stay cautious in areas where slopes suddenly become steeper, as these often trigger points for avalanches, Ryan added.

“Stay well back from ridge lines,” said Ryan. “It can be hard to know where the ridge ends, and a cornice begins.”