North Shore Rescue urges hikers to be prepared

After several recent serious incidents on local hiking trails, North Shore Rescue (NSR) is reminding everyone to come prepared if they are heading to the backcountry.

One of the most common things the NSR sees is hikers relying too much on their cell phones.

“Hikers think that they will have connectivity in the backcountry, and they can just dial 911 and get help,” said Al McMordie, Search Manager with the NSR.

“On the North Shore, you lose cell connectivity quite quickly.”

McMordie is also reminding everyone to have proper hiking footwear and to bring a walking pole for support and traction on uneven ground.

He adds that having the right supplies with you is equally important and could make the difference if you get stuck or lost in the backcountry.

“Especially during these hot summer days, I think hikers underestimate how much water they are going to need,” McMordie explained.

“And if you start getting dehydrated, you’re not thinking clearly. So, bringing enough water is critical,” he emphasized.

The NSR Search Manager also recommends that everyone leave a trip plan with somebody back at home.

“That plan should say where I am going. These are the times. If I am not back by this time, or if I have not phoned you to say that I am out by this time, call 911 and give them this plan,” he said.

“So that the Search and Rescue teams would be able to respond even if you can not communicate.”

With files from Ben Bouguerra.