Adventuring Safely in the Fall
It’s been a busy summer for RMES! Our members spent much of the summer responding to backcountry rescue calls with our partners at Kananaskis Public Safety, Alpine Helicopters, STARS and Alberta Parks. With beautiful Fall weather ahead of us, here’s a few tips to help ensure we don’t “meet” you in the backcountry:
- Start early – It’s easier for first responders to find you in daylight and get you to safety. Days are getting shorter and it’s harder for our crews to find you in the dark.
- Park in designated parking spaces – Trailheads are busy and parking lots are full. Please only park in designated parking stalls, to leave room for emergency vehicles and crews to do our work.
- Wear the gear – Wear the right equipment for the activity you’re planning to enjoy; including footwear, weather-appropriate clothing and helmets if you’re riding a bike.
- Carry emergency gear with you – Having a flashlight, first aid kit, medication, water and small supply of food will make it easier to wait for us to get to you.
- Take a buddy – Don’t adventure alone.
- Talk to your kids – Sometimes things happen to adults. Before you set out for your adventure, discuss an emergency plan with minors including how/where to get help if an adult(s) get injured.
- Tell someone where you’re going, the route you’re taking and when you’ll be back.
As always, when you see the big red trucks coming up behind you with our lights flashing and sirens going: Pull over and stop. It’s the law and someone else is depending on us to get to them quickly and safely.
Until next month, stay safe!
