A collaborative effort by Quesnel and Prince George Search and Rescues, as well as the Royal Canadian Air Force, saved a snowmobiler who got separated from its group on Friday afternoon, Feb. 27.
The individual was “trapped in a large drainage deep within avalanche terrain,” said QSAR in a Facebook post.
Both SAR teams from Quesnel and Prince George were drafting an “on the ground” plan as there was “considerable” avalanche risk. However, due to the risk and the possibility of endangering volunteer personnel, the SAR teams requested help from the Royal Canadian Air Force 442 Transport and Rescue Squadron from Comox.
The specialized resource is used for high-risk missions.
“We are grateful they accepted the task,” said QSAR.
The individual was also saved thanks to help from the rest of the people they got separated from.
“We commend the subject’s riding party for their vital role in maintaining communication and monitoring his location for several hours,” said QSAR. “The subject had a two-way radio with them which served as a lifeline.”
QSAR reminds the public to be prepared when going into the backcountry.
“When venturing into the backcountry be sure to have an emergency signalling device, a means to keep warm, and appropriate avalanche safety gear if riding in avalanche terrain,” said QSAR.