Getting Outside Safely

Be AdventureSmart.

Whether your activity is during the summer or winter, on land on water, anywhere in BC, remember the Three T’s and follow the steps.

Trip Planning:

Create a trip plan on paper or digitally and leave it with a trusted emergency contact.

• Who is going? When are you going? Where are you going and what are you doing? What supplies and equipment are you taking with you?
• Know the terrain & conditions.
• Check the weather.

Train:

Know and stay within your limits. Obtain knowledge & skills you need before heading out.

Check out some of AdventureSmart's free programs by following the button below.

Take the Essentials: 

Whether the duration of your outdoor activity is a few hours or a few days, these are the basic survival items* you should have in ANY outdoors situation. 

1. Flashlight, spare batteries and bulb
2. Fire-making kit – waterproof matches/ lighter, fire starter/candle
3. Signaling device (i.e. whistle or mirror) 
4. Extra food and water (1 litre/person)
5. Extra clothing (rain, wind, water protection and toque)
6. Navigational/communication aids
7. First aid kit – know how to use it
8. Emergency blanket/shelter 
9. Pocket knife 
10. Sun protection 

*This list only covers basic survival items. Always assure you have the appropriate seasonal, activity-specific, or specialized equipment.

Keep Wildlife Wild and Stay Safe

RESPECT WILD ANIMALS & KEEP A "BARE" CAMPSITE
Feeding wildlife can put you, your pet, and others at risk. It also teaches wild animals' behaviours that get them into trouble and can lead to tragic consequences. Do not intentionally feed animals any types of food and keep all of your garbage and food secure and out of reach. Remember, keep a "bare" campsite.

KEEP A SAFE DISTANCE
View and photograph wildlife from a safe and respectful distance of at least 100m for bears, and 30m for other large non-predatory animals. If you cause an animal to move, you are too close. There is no safe distance for wolves or cougars if they are aware of your presence.

NEVER RUN
If you encounter a bear, cougar, wolf, or coyote, never run as this can trigger a chase or predatory response. Stay calm and speak calmly in a low voice. Move away slowly without turning your
back. If the animal approaches you, stand your ground and speak loudly and firmly. Do not let wildlife approach you. Be prepared to use bear spray.

KEEP PETS ON A LEASH
Not only can dogs displace wildlife, they can chase after bears and bring them back to their owners, or be injured or killed. Wild animals will defend themselves and their young. Large carnivores may consider your pet as potential prey.

AVOID SURPRISE ENCOUNTERS
When hiking on trails, be sure to make noise by clapping your hands and using your voice. Do not rely on bear bells. Watch for signs such as scat or claw marks on trees. Avoid hiking alone, carry bear spray and know how to use it.

Help Keep Your Parks Beautiful

Keep your park clean
Use the appropriate recycling, garbage, and wastewater disposal facilities, whenever available. Please pack out your waste if these are not accessible. This includes all food scraps and any hazardous materials.

Keep your park from burning up
Respect fire bans. Never leave a fire unattended and only use designated fire pits. Put fires out completely.

Keep your park relaxed and positive
Respect other park visitors and campers while they experience the natural peacefulness of open spaces. Follow the guidance of staff and signs so that everyone can stay safe. Deliberate or unnecessary noise, such as loud music, is not allowed at any time. Smoking tobacco or cannabis, ecigarettes, and vaping are not allowed in most areas.

Keep your park culture & history
Remember that you are on the traditional lands of Indigenous Peoples. Take extra care around pit houses, shell middens, and other heritage sites. Leave any cultural artifacts or remains where you find them.

Keep your parks great and accessible for everyone
Donate, volunteer, or find other ways to give back to your parks.