A lesson in BC Rescue…

A recent trip with friends into the Backcountry gave us all a reminder how important it is to be fully equipped not just with the main ingredients – beacon, shovel and probe – but also with survival and first aid gear essential in the event that any member of the party is injured. Our day started out great with beautiful blue skies, nice snow on top and everyone was in high spirits dropping into the nice powder on top, spraying some tails and popping some spines…

Maybe its nature punching back at humans with all the global concerns we’re facing, but a lot of friends have been having some issues with trees lately and this day was no different. Our wounded soldier tried to brave it in the beginning but the pain became overwhelming and it was time to move into impact management and rescue mode. Thankfully our friend, associate and backcountry guide was prepared and knowledgeable and said soldier was cared for, splint went on, snowboard stretcher was constructed and so began the process of getting him out of the BC. The accident occurred around 10AM but the runout is long and consisted of some river crossings, dams to navigate and in general a long way to travel…

Preparations were made townside for drinks and supplies for the weary bearers on their exit to the runout and run up the hill by a man whose fitness should not be underestimated; and fresh blood was brought in to assist on the final stage of the journey to the road, along with a proper body transporter courtesy of our friends at Ski Patrol. Everyone was out by 5:o0 PM, by which time it was getting cold, and we all left the scene with a greater understanding of the risks involved and the preparation and forethought necessary before entering BC areas. We hope this story can help those who read it realise the importance of always being fully prepared, equipped and educated. A broken leg was the injury, and thanks to the hard work, knowledge and support of a few good men this was as bad as it got.