BACKCOUNTRY SAFETY
Whether you’re an experienced recreationalist or just heading out for a family-friendly day hike, stay safe by following the tips below.
Create a TRIP PLAN
TRIP PLAN SHOULD INCLUDE:
Time and date of departure
Your starting point
Your destination
Your planned route
People in your group
Your contact numbers
Anticipated return time and date
Why Trip Plans Save Lives
Why Trip Plans Save LivesA trip plan is more than a checklist—it’s your lifeline. It gives rescuers the critical information they need to find you quickly if you become lost or injured.
Without a trip plan, valuable time is lost trying to determine where to begin searching. In cases of severe weather or injury, that delay can mean the difference between life and death.
Before you head out, file a trip plan. Share it with someone you trust. It does not cost anything and it could save your life.
TAKE ESSENTIALS
Know Your Limits
Before you head out, take an honest look at your physical condition. Choose routes that match your fitness level and experience. In the backcountry, pushing beyond your limits doesn’t just put you at risk—it can endanger your team and delay rescue efforts.
Smart choices keep you safe. Know your limits. Hike within them.
Check the Weather
Mountain weather is unpredictable. Before you head out, check the forecast—and prepare for sudden changes. Even on short hikes bring layers, rain gear, and emergency shelter.
In the backcountry, being weather-ready isn’t optional—it’s survival.
TRAIN
AdventureSmart is a free national program that encourages Canadians and visitors to “Get informed & go outdoors!”. Created by Emergency Management B.C. with support from the National Search and Rescue Secretariat, the RCMP, and the British Columbia SAR Association, the program promotes outdoor safety through education.
By combining online resources, on-site awareness, and targeted outreach, AdventureSmart aims to reduce the number and severity of search and rescue incidents across Canada.
in
EMERGENCY
STOP
THINK
OBSERVE
PLAN
CALSARA Presentations
Hug-a-Tree and Survive is a nationally recognized safety program designed to teach children how to stay safe if they become lost in the outdoors. Originally developed by search and rescue professionals, the program uses simple, memorable messages to help kids make smart decisions in a stressful situation.
Hug-a-Tree and Survive is a nationally recognized safety program designed to teach children how to stay safe if they become lost in the outdoors. Originally developed by search and rescue professionals, the program uses simple, memorable messages to help kids make smart decisions in a stressful situation.Target Audience:
Children aged 5–11, though adaptable for slightly younger or older audiences.
Survive Outside is a core presentation from the AdventureSmart program, designed to help outdoor enthusiasts of all ages—especially those 12 and up—stay safe while exploring backcountry. It focuses on three key pillars of outdoor preparedness: Trip Planning, Training, and Taking the Essentials. These principles are presented in an engaging format that includes real-world examples, interactive discussion, and practical tips for avoiding common backcountry risks.
Target Audience:
Anyone 12 and up.
Additional Resources
Alberta Bears and outdoor recreation
Alberta Cougars and outdoor recreation
Alberta Wolves and outdoor recreation
Alberta Wildfire status
Parks Canada Safety and guidelines
Parks Canada Bear safety
Environment Canada Weather Conditions and Forecast