As the snowpack deepens in Kananaskis Country, Albertans are invited to experience hands-on winter safety demonstrations and displays at the fourth annual Avalanche Awareness Day on January 17.
Organized by Alberta Parks, this free event is focused on all aspects of snow safety, for both experienced and inexperienced winter recreationalists.
“Our government is committed to ensuring high quality outdoor experiences for all Albertans in our wonderful parks system. But backcountry and other activities have risks associated with them, including the very real risk of avalanche. Events like Avalanche Awareness Day build public knowledge and education around safety in the mountains. Education is the key to avoiding tragedy in the backcountry, and allows more people to explore Alberta’s outdoors and lead an active lifestyle.”
This outdoor family-friendly event is held in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park, and includes hands-on workshops in snowpack analysis, companion rescue techniques, avalanche transceiver and terrain recognition practice, and demonstrations with avalanche rescue dogs.
Winter safety experts will also demonstrate new technologies in safety gear, and timeless techniques for winter survival – from building snow huts to starting fires. Visitors will also learn more about the wide range of winter recreational activities available in provincial parks, and about seasonal ecology and wildlife.
Event details
Avalanche Awareness Day
Sunday, January 17
Burstall Pass Trailhead, Smith-Dorrien Road
Peter Lougheed Provincial Park
11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (drop-in)
Related information