Spring 2020: Enjoy the Land Safely!

Are you planning a hunting or fishing trip? If so, you should have a safety plan!

​When it comes to outdoor activities, there is no replacement for experience and good decision-making. However, a safety plan will help you when it comes to preventing dangerous situations when travelling on the land.

Changing weather and trail conditions, sudden mechanical or health issues, accidents and poor preparation are the main factors leading to dangerous situations when travelling on the land.

Remember your A, B, C, and D:

Advise family & friends where you're going and when you'll return.

Many hunters and fishers take steps to stay safe on the land, including packing the right gear and checking the weather conditions. However, some neglect to share the details of their trip. Telling your family and friends where you're going and when you're coming back significantly improves your chance of being found quickly if you get lost or injured.

Be prepared for 72 hours! Bring equipment for shelter, extra fuel, tools and parts, rope, First Aid Kit, dry clothes, food, etc.

Even if you're planning just a day-trip, you never know what can happen and how long it will take before you'll be rescued. For example, bad weather conditions could delay search and rescue operations. You should prepare yourself as if you were leaving for at least 72 hours.

Communication device: when travelling, bring an HF radio, satellite phone or Spot device. These devices will allow you to communicate your situation with the authorities. Your call for help will speed up the start of the search and rescue operation.

Don't travel alone. Travelling with more than one snowmobile reduces the risk of being stranded in case of a mechanical breakdown. It will also help your chances of getting back to town quickly in the case of a medical emergency.

If something happens, don't panic and STOP!

Stop and look at the situation.

Think of the resources and equipment you have.

Observe all challenges and risks.

Plan a safe strategy for survival and stay with your equipment.​