Page Content

Canada is a country of extremes – rugged mountains, glistening waters, lush rainforests, vast prairies, barren wastelands, icy glaciers, extensive coastlines. Though Canada’s scenery is breathtakingly beautiful, it also plays host to unpredictable and potentially dangerous terrain, weather and wildlife.

We rarely head out for an outdoor adventure with the expectation that something will go wrong, and, most times, everything will go right. However, that one time that the unexpected happens…your investment in Trip Safety can mean the difference between a successful outcome and becoming a statistic.

Whether your activity is during the summer or winter, on land or water, anywhere in Canada; remember the three T’s and follow these simple steps:

Trip Planning

View the brochure

  • Plan your travel route
  • Know the terrain and conditions
  • Check the weather
  • Always fill out a trip plan

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.

Trip Tips

Travel with a companion: A companion can give you a hand to overcome difficulties or emergencies.

Be prepared: Ensure everyone with you understands what to do in case of an emergency.

Don’t depend solely on technology: Equipment failure and lack of reception are very possible in the outdoors. Consider carrying a map and compass as a backup.

In an emergency…

Don’t panic Stay calm and maintain a positive attitude.

STOP
Sit, Think, Observe and Plan.

Stay put
It reduces time and search area for the authorities looking for you.

Seek shelter
Protect yourself from the elements by staying warm and dry.

Signal for help
Think BIG, Think CONTRAST, Think 3’s.
  • Create a ground-to-air symbol by making the letter “V” or “SOS”, at least 3 meters in length.
  • Use whistle blasts x 3, mirror flashes x 3, horn blasts x 3, signal fires x 3 or rock piles x 3 to signal distress.