PUBLIC URGED TO STAY OUT OF BACKCOUNTRY DUE TO WILDFIRES

With BC’s recent declaration of emergency status in regards to the current wildfire situation, many places are now talking about limiting public access to the backcountry for safety reasons. After conducting five rescue operations over nine days across Mt Revelstoke and Glacier National Parks (three of which were technical long line rescues), Revelstoke Search and Rescue is asking people not to enter the backcountry due to the high risk and the toll on resources if things go wrong.

Although there isn’t a 2017/2018-esque province-wide backcountry ban yet, with almost 300 fires currently burning in the province (and 9 new evacuation orders issued this week), Premier John Horgan is urging public to stay out of the backcountry as it’s really only a matter of time. 

We’re all for backcountry adventures, especially when that means unplugging your phone and disappearing into the wilderness for a few days. But maybe those adventures should wait just a little. Things are changing quickly out there, and prolonged exposure to the heat and the smoke can affect even the most dialled-in and experienced decision makers. 

And as always, keep checking that BC Wildfire dashboard for updates. Stay safe out there!