As students and families head for the ski slopes this spring break, the Ministry of Justice and the Canadian Avalanche Centre (CAC) want to remind skiers and boarders to respect the ski area boundaries and closure signs.

Often referred to as 'slackcountry', slang for terrain outside of ski boundaries that is accessible by chairlift, these areas can pose the same risk and deserve the same respect from skiers and boarders as the backcountry.

It is important that those who venture out-of-bounds take all the necessary precautions and that all recreation enthusiasts who choose to do so recognize they are taking some measure of personal risk.

Quotes:

Shirley Bond, Minister of Justice and Attorney General -

"It should not be called slackcountry. It is backcountry and it can be dangerous. This spring break, we are urging skiers and snow boarders not to go out of bounds - it can be incredibly hazardous and it is simply not worth the risk. I also want to encourage everyone to make sure that they are aware of the dangers that come with ducking the rope. This is especially important for parents to discuss with their children."

Karl Klassen, acting executive director for the Canadian Avalanche Centre -

"Crossing a boundary rope is a big decision. Once you're outside the ski area boundaries you're in the backcountry and you need to be able to take care of yourself and your partners. That means avalanche rescue equipment, first-aid supplies and awareness of the risk you're taking."

Quick Facts:

• No one should be entering areas marked "closed", whether for avalanche danger or any other hazard. If you do so, you run the risk of having your lift pass revoked and even being fined. Most importantly, you are endangering yourself and others.

• If you are thinking of going out of bounds, check in with the resort for the best point of access to the backcountry.

• Everyone in a backcountry party needs to be equipped with a shovel, probe and transceiver. More information on safety equipment is available at: www.youtube.com/user/emergencyinfobc

• The CAC strongly recommends all backcountry users take an avalanche awareness course. A list of instructors and courses can be found at: www.avalanche.ca/training

• Snowpack stability changes constantly throughout the winter. Backcountry users need to check the avalanche bulletin regularly to keep informed of conditions in their area. Get the most recent bulletin and weather forecasts at: www.avalanche.ca/cac/bulletins/latest

• Planning ahead is a must - before you head outdoors be sure to leave a trip plan with someone and stick to that plan. For a printable copy of a trip plan, visit: www.adventuresmart.ca/trip_safety/planning.htm

Learn More:

Audio and video clips from the Canadian Avalanche Centre and the Ministry of Justice are available through SendtoNews at http://www.sendtonews.com?SK=4XvZW8dnwm

More detailed information is also available on the CAC forecaster's blog. For the bulletins, blog and information on training, check: www.avalanche.ca/cac

For tips on how to stay safe, follow Emergency Management BC on Twitter at @EmergencyPrepBC and the CAC at @avalancheca

* For backcountry essentials and avalanche awareness information, go to: www.adventuresmart.ca/snow/avalanche.htm

(flickr.com)

Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Justice
250 356-6961

Mary Clayton
Canadian Avalanche Centre
Communications Director
250 837-2141, ext 228
250 837-1492