The holiday season brought a flurry of activity for Fernie Search and Rescue (SAR), as calls for assistance surged during the Christmas break. The team has already faced a range of challenging situations, including an all-night rescue of lost snowmobilers, medical evacuation operations for injured sledders, and a heartbreaking fatality. A 54-year-old Sparwood man died from a snowmobile collision south of Fernie.
As the winter season intensifies, Fernie SAR is once again emphasizing the importance of preparation and safety for those venturing into the backcountry.
The recent incidents highlight critical safety reminders for backcountry enthusiasts:
• How Will You Call for Help?
Cellphone coverage is often unreliable away from the valley, making emergency communication devices essential. While some users have successfully called for help using the iPhone 14’s satellite messaging feature, Fernie SAR stresses the value of dedicated devices like InReach or Spot. These tools are designed specifically for emergency situations, offering reliable location tracking and messaging.
Recent rescues revealed that iPhone satellite messaging does not automatically embed location data, which can delay the response. Additionally, many individuals use their phones for non-emergency purposes during the day, leaving batteries depleted when help is needed most. A dedicated device ensures you’re prepared when it matters most.
• How Will You Stay Warm and Safe While Waiting for Help?
With shorter daylight hours and rapidly dropping temperatures, it’s vital to carry gear for warmth, first aid, and survival. In remote areas, ground response times can stretch for many hours, especially after dark, when air support may no longer be viable. Having the right equipment and knowledge can make all the difference during this critical waiting period.
Fernie SAR’s work is made possible through close collaboration with 911 agencies and neighboring rescue groups. Together, they strive to deliver effective and timely responses to emergencies across the region. However, prevention remains the best strategy.
Fernie SAR encourages everyone heading into the backcountry to ask themselves:
• How will I call for help if I need it?
• Am I equipped to stay safe and warm while waiting for rescue?
The backcountry can be as unforgiving as it is beautiful, and preparation is key to ensuring a safe adventure.
Stay safe out there!
The Fernie SAR group is comprised of volunteers who assist people in emergencies in the backcountry. Fernie Search and Rescue can be tasked by various agencies, including the RCMP, the British Columbia Ambulance Service or BCAS, Fire /Rescue, local municipalities and the Department of National Defense.
Members of the public needing a SAR response should call 911, ask for the RCMP or BCAS and state that the nature of the emergency is in the backcountry and requires a SAR response.
To make a Fernie SAR donation you can do so online here.
Photos: SAR
