What may start out as a relaxing drive out of the Okanagan Valley can quickly become dangerous when winter conditions arrive.
Central Okanagan Search and Rescue (COSAR) was called to the Bear Lake Main Forest Service Road this week after a driver got stuck in snowy and icy conditions. Rescuers say this scenario is becoming more common this time of year.
“You think it's a nice sunny day in the valley and then you go out there and you get fog or ice,” said Dwayne Tresnich with Central Okanagan Search and Rescue.
“There is a thin layer of ice under the snow, you can easily slide into a ditch and get stuck.”
Oddly enough, COSAR reports that it was the same driver who required assistance from the same location just over a week ago. However, this time the rescuers were informed that help was no longer needed.
“The RCMP told us he was able to get out of the situation with the help of bystanders and he returned home and told us he was OK,” Tresnich said.
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As winter weather sets in at higher elevations, tow truck operators are also busy this time of year.
“This time of year, a lot of people just don’t have the right equipment,” said Marlon Fagan, owner of EnviroMetal Towing. “They are not prepared and do not expect winter conditions in the mountains.”
Fagan says proper preparation is critical when drivers could face several feet of snow, adding that simple, accessible equipment can make a big difference.
“One thing I would recommend to anyone going into the backcountry is tire tracks, these are traction mats and they are very affordable,” he said.
On the way to the main Bear Lake FSR, conditions change quickly. Snow covers the roadway, temperatures drop significantly compared to the valley floor, and cell phone service becomes unreliable—all factors that can complicate a rescue operation if something goes wrong.
That's why COSAR reminds motorists that assistance may take some time to arrive.
“It takes time for us as volunteers to get there,” Tresnich said. “Make sure you have food, water, communications if you can, a radio, phone activation and a way to start a fire. This is very important.”
Sunday's incident was COSAR's 101st rescue operation this year, and a number of rescuers say it underscores the importance of preparation before going into remote areas.
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