Dress warmly and accordingly.
Coquitlam Search and Rescue (SAR) is reminding the public to be extra prepared when choosing to hike this winter as temperatures are consistently below freezing, especially at higher elevations.
This past weekend, volunteers rescued two brothers that were not prepared for the conditions. They were found cold to the bone after hiking in deep snow on Burke Mountain.
A rescue team was called in around 4 p.m. on Saturday (Nov. 12) after the 17- and 18-year-old were caught high up on the snow-covered trails.
According to Coquitlam SAR, its side-by-side and four ebikes located the hikers five hours later (9 p.m.). Their condition was described as "very cold and wet."
Volunteers gave them dry clothes and they were fed while heading down Burke Mountain "to waiting parents at 11 p.m."
Hypothermia
As it could have been a possibility in this situation, Coquitlam SAR is encouraging outdoor recreation enthusiasts to recognize the signs of hypothermia.
The organization says a person can even experience the symptoms in mild temperatures.
"Dress for the current conditions but remember the forecast is for the urban areas, and the wilderness can be very different, even very close to town," CSAR's website reads, noting rain, wind, elevation and terrain can enhance the effects of colder air.
"The amount of food or water you’ve eaten affects your body’s ability to maintain its temperature."
Symptoms of hypothermia include:
- Shivering
- Slurred speech
- Apathy
- Lack of energy
- Stiff limbs
Coquitlam SAR is also asking everyone to plan ahead before heading up on local mountains and to consider wearing appropriate gear.
This could include microspikes on shoes for better grip on icier trails and near cliffs, as well as winter coats, toques and gloves.
For more information on outdoor recreation trip planning, visit Coquitlam SAR's website.
The organization also lists the following 10 essentials to consider bringing when heading out into the backcountry:
- Flashlight and spare batteries
- Extra food and water
- Extra clothing (rain, wind, water protection)
- Navigational aids (map, compass, altimeter, GPS, chart, radio, mobile phone)
- Fire starter
- First aid kit
- Emergency shelter
- Sun protection
- Pocket knife
- Signalling device
