Although West Central Alberta is one of the province's finest outdoor activity districts, providing many, many year-round recreational opportunities, the region can also be dangerous for travellers, especially in wintertime.
Only a few years ago an elderly Calgary couple died when their vehicle became stranded on an isolated winter road south of Sundre.
The couple didn't have the equipment and food they needed to keep themselves warm and safe until help arrived, and as a result they lost their lives.
The tragedy provides a shocking example of how events can sometimes go very wrong when things take an unexpected turn in the vast West County wilderness along the eastern foothills of the Rocky Mountains.
On the other hand, the recent experience of two hunters north of Sundre is a great example of what can and should be done to avert wilderness disasters in wintertime.
On Nov. 5 police received a report that the hunters were overdue, having previously informed family members of their plans and schedules.
The report prompted a massive, multi-stakeholder search that resulted in the hunters being found safe and sound. The hunters' vehicle had become struck on an isolated road and without cell coverage they were unable to call for help.
However, the hunters had brought along all the equipment and food they needed to stay overnight at the site.
The case prompted RCMP to issue the following message: “We would like to remind people who are going into the backcountry to be prepared and make a plan. Always tell somebody where you are going, when you are returning, and the routes you plan to take.
“If you are in a vehicle and it breaks down or becomes disabled - stay with it. Consider having a means of communication such as satellite phones and GPS locators as much of the backcountry has no cell service.”
As the hunter case shows, being prepared for West Country travel takes only a few minutes, providing peace of mind for travellers and their families while at the same time helping prevent tragedies.
With that in mind, anyone considering visiting the West Country in the coming weeks and months is encouraged to make sure they have all the equipment they need, including adequate clothing, food and water.
And of course you should always let someone know where you plan to go and when you expect to return home.
The West Country can be a great place for outdoor visits, whether it's for snowmobiling, cross-county skiing, hunting, ice fishing, skating and many other things.
Safety planning should be part of any travel plans to West Country destinations, including during the upcoming winter months.
