Our country is one of extremes – from soaring mountains to rugged coastline, and from arid desert to lush rainforest, it's a hiker and trail runner's paradise just waiting to be explored!
Canada has 300 search and rescue groups consisting of 9,000 SAR volunteers who dedicate 300,000 hours annually to prevention, response and administration.
AdventureSmart increases awareness to help reduce the number and severity of search and rescue incidents in Canada.
AdventureSmart wants you to follow the 3 T's;
Trip Planning (more)
- Plan your travel route
- Know the terrain and conditions
- Check the weather
- Always fill out a trip plan (more)
Training
- Obtain the knowledge and skills you need before heading out.
- Know and stay within your limits.
Taking the Essentials
Always carry the essentials and know how to use them:
- Flashlight
- Fire making kit
- Signalling device (i.e. whistle)
- Extra food and water
- Extra clothing
- Navigational/communication devices
- First aid kit
- Emergency blanket/shelter
- Pocket knife
- Sun protection
- Add other equipment specific to your chosen activity, season and location.
Whether you're out for a leisurely day-hike or trail run through park trails or a strenuous multi-day trek through the backcountry wilds, ensure your trip is a safe one:
- Check the weather before you leave and be prepared for it to change.
- Carry extra food & clothing – a good rule of thumb for day-trippers is to be able to stay out overnight, in case of trouble.
- Be bear aware and cougar aware. Bears and cougars aren't just in the backcountry – our parks and cities encroach on their habitat. Ensure you know what to do if you meet one.
Canada's trails are for everyone, so while you're out there remember:
- Keep to the trail. Shortcuts contribute to erosion and can destroy sensitive growth.
- Slow your pace and announce your presence/intentions when approaching other users.
- Share the trail. Downhill yields to uphill. Hikers yield to horseback riders.
