ALWAYS BE PREPARED

Even if you are planning a short day out, you should always be prepared to fend for yourself. The mountains aresubject to sudden weather changes - fog, heavy snow, extreme temperature changes - or you could become separated from your group. These 'rules' apply to backcountry travel at any time of the year.

• Make a Travel Plan. Let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return.

• NEVER travel alone. If you injure yourself while alone, your chances of survival are reduced.

• Carry a map and compass. A GPS is helpful - know how to operate it.

• Carry a beacon and probe and know how to use them.

• Prepare as though you plan to spend a night or two out.

• Pack energy bars or similar emergency food - make sure it is fresh.

• Carry spare clothing, especially gloves, socks, touque.

• Carry a space blanket - it can act as a windbreak to keep you warmer.

• Carry fire starter (solid BBQ starter works well, or homemade blocks of paraffin poured over dry sawdust in a muffin tin).

• Carry matches in a dry container with a bit of waxed paper. Wooden matches are a must. If you don't have a waterproof match container, use a 35mm film cannister.

• Carry a good first-aid kit, a flashlight (make sure batteries are charged - LED type are longer lasting), a light stick and signaling devices (flares, a whistle, a mirror, a sheet of red plastic to lay on snow as a ground sheet or use to signal to aircraft).

• Always carry spare gas, a spare drive belt, spark plugs (be sure they are working) and an extra piece of starter rope.

• Carry a length of strong tow rope.

• Carry a hatchet and/or sturdy knife.

• Know how to build a snow or tree shelter. It's a basic skill which could save your life!

• If it becomes obvious that you will have to spend a night out, gather fuel for a fire early in the day - don't wait until dark. Build a shelter near your snowmobile, as it is the source of things you can use to stay alive. It will also serve as a windbreak when there is nothing else.