Summer is rarely a vacation for the hard-working members of North Shore Rescue.
With the warmer months come more hikers venturing out into the local backcountry - and a spike in call-outs for lost or injured outdoor enthusiasts.
Prior to the B.C. Day long weekend NSR urged would-be adventurers to be prepared and educated before venturing into the woods.
NSR, District of North Vancouver Fire Rescue and other emergency responders have been busy in the backcountry so far this summer.
Just check out each organization’s Twitter feeds to get a sense of the volume of rescues already performed in June and July.
Many of the distress calls, of course, could have been avoided.
Here in Deep Cove, the popular Quarry Rock hike attracts thousands each summer, many of whom tackle the trail without even the basics like proper footwear or water.
Despite large new information boards at many North Shore trailheads that provide a checklist of what you need to successfully ascend the popular trail, many continue to be blissfully underprepared when ascending the
Ground Grind, Grouse, Cypress and Seymour mountains, Lynn Headwaters and other popular - and even more challenging - North Shore trails.
The result? NSR members enjoying their own summer weekend activities must drop everything to make another rescue, many of which could have been avoided.
Reducing the volume of emergency calls just takes a little pre-hike prep.
There’s a mountain of information for getting properly prepared for the backcountry.
Even experienced hikers will sometimes get into trouble in the backcountry, but being prepared greatly reduces the chances that you’ll need to be rescued.
Northshorerescue.com provides all the necessary hints and info you need so you won’t get lost and also has a handy list of items you absolutely need to bring on your next adventure.
NSR’s list of 10 essentials include: light, signalling device, fire starter, extra clothes, pocket knife, shelter, water and food, first-aid kit, navigation, and communications device (read more at northshorerescue.com).
Also, as Tim Jones always implored, it is important, to make sure to tell somebody where you are going and leave a detailed itinerary and time of return.
More recently, NSR had launched a dedicated Twitter account @NSREducate dedicated to backcountry preparedness. Another good resource is adventuresmart.ca.
NSR selflessly does their part 24/7, 365 to make sure they are prepared to make a rescue at a moment’s notice, often putting their own lives in danger to save others.
So, now it’s time to do you part too.
Get prepared before you step into the woods or backcountry.
That way North Shore Rescue members may get to enjoy a little summer vacation too.
