Backcountry Safety

For Your Safety

Leave an itinerary with a responsible person that details where you're going, your route, and when you will return.
To report an emergency call 9-1-1.
Report sightings of bears, cougars, wolves and problem wildlife to Kananaskis Emergency Services at 403-591-7755. To be connected toll-free in Alberta dial 310-0000 followed by the phone number. From a cell phone, dial the toll-free code (*310 for Roger's Wireless; #310 for Bell & Telus) followed by the phone number.

Research the route you plan to take
Check local weather forecasts before you go. Be prepared for sudden changes in mountain weather. Snow is possible any month of the year.
For current conditions on trails and potential wildlife concerns, check
- Advisories & Public Safety
- Trail Reports
- Avalanche Report and Avalanche Terrain Ratings & Exposure Scale
- The nearest Visitor Information Centre
Leave all valuables at home. Vehicle break-ins do occur in Kananaskis.

Everyone who travels in the backcountry should be fully prepared. You should plan to self-rescue if possible. If not...

Calling for Help

Dial 9-1-1 from a pay or cell phone - remember that cell phone coverage is limited in many locations throughout Kananaskis.
Tell the dispatcher that you have an emergency in Kananaskis Country. The dispatcher will then transfer you to the Kananaskis Country Emergency Services Centre.
With a satellite phone, dialing 9-1-1 may transfer you to an emergency centre unfamiliar with Kananaskis Country - if you're using a satellite phone, call the local emergency number instead (403-591-7767).
Kananaskis Country Emergency Services Centre dispatch will ask you questions to better understand:
- the exact location of the emergency;
- the nature of the accident and the seriousness of any injuries;
- your name and call back number; and
- when the accident occurred.

Signalling a Helicopter

On occasion, a helicopter may be used for backcountry rescue.
Rescue staff in the helicopter are not able to communicate with people on the ground.
- It is imperative that you use standard visual signals to reduce confusion.
- Although dispatchers will coach you on how to make these signals, knowing them before you head into the backcountry is preferable.

To reduce confusion when a helicopter approaches, the person on the ground with a satellite phone or cell phone should remain on the line with dispatch.