Dangerous avalanche conditions exist for all mountainous regions in western Canada.  There were two fatalities due to avalanches in March, one in the Kananaskis area and the other near Revelstoke. 

 

Avalanche Canada has issued a special public warning effect from now until May 1, 2024.

 

Researchers working in avalanche areas in British Columbia are required to have a written avalanche risk assessment and an Avalanche Safety Plan. See s. 4.1.1 and 4.1.2 of the Workers Compensation Act, OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY REGULATION. 

 

The Canadian Avalanche Association has adopted the approach taken by Worksafe BC. You can find an example of an Avalanche Safety Plan such as one for Snowmobile Clubs.

 

Although Alberta doesn't have a specific requirement for an avalanche safety plan, the requirement of a hazard assessment for avalanches requires many of the same elements.  

 

A recent review of the Alberta Wildfire Map shows 57 active wildfires, however, 50 of those are carryovers from last year (controlled) with 7 being held.

 

On the Alberta Fire Ban Map there are fire advisories and fire restrictions across Alberta.  Be aware of those issued in the areas of your research and follow all requirements.

 

Chainsaw Training Certification
When: May 1-3 | 8:30 - 4:30 p.m. 

Where: Alberta Botanic Gardens, north of Devon

Cost: The full three-day course is $1,000. 

The comprehensive three-day course covers safety considerations, basic saw maintenance, basic saw handling, emergency response plans, basic bucking, and limbing techniques, bolt and boring cuts, compression/tension cuts, and felling technical training.

There is the option to take a two-day course which will bucking and limbing with no falling for $750.

The Field Research Office rents satellite phones, inReach devices, first aid kits, and AEDs at cost recovery prices. We do have a limited amount of phones activated so please give us 48 hours notice.

 

Sat Phones: $35/ week plus usage fees

InReach Devices: $25/week (15K plan) or $30/week (Unlimited data plan)

First Aid Kits: $6/week.

AEDs: free

The South Campus Storage Lot (southwest of the Saville Centre) has storage containers and cages for storing combustibles and most field equipment is stored there.

All users of the lot must request access online.