From Clive Giolma (KHC leader and Search and Rescue member):

If I’m leading a hike, before we depart, I tell the group, that if anyone gets ‘separated’ or lost from the group to:

• stop immediately (Do not try to find us. We will find you )
• sit down and wait to be found.
• If a hiker has to leave the trail for a nature call, they are to tell another hiker where they are going, then drop their pack, poles or something else on the trail at their exit point, and go no further than they have to into the bush.
• If one of our members is missing, it is necessary to conduct a hasty search immediately for no more than 30 minutes to an hour, then notify the Police or park Ranger.
• If the member is injured and unable to walk out, the authorities must be notified as soon as possible. Search and Rescue is free. Notify the police or park Ranger asap . It is far better to alert the authorities and SAR right away and cancel them later if not required, than to make a delayed call for help.
• Search and rescue groups across BC and Alberta as well as the National Parks are trained and ready to transport injured hikers, bikers/skiers back to safety.
• For trip safety guide links and info, as well as the best 10 essentials list go to www.adventuresmart.ca