A 42-year-old man from Golden was killed in a backcountry avalanche southeast of the community on Monday.
Golden-Field RCMP officials say they received a report of two missing men at approximately 10 p.m. on February 17.
The caller said the men were skiing in the mountains southeast of Golden and were last heard from at 5:30 p.m. that day.
Police say one of the men returned home and confirmed his skiing companion had died due to an avalanche.
“Despite life-saving attempts, the man succumbed to his injuries,” said Golden-Field RCMP.
“The surviving friend had to leave him at the location to ensure his own safe return.”
Golden and District Search and Rescue were dispatched with a helicopter and were able to retrieve the man’s body.
Columbia Valley Search and Rescue (CVSAR) member and Mountain guide Jordy Shepherd says taking emergency equipment and knowledge with you when you go backcountry skiing is vital.
This could include food, water, warm clothes, gear to stay warm overnight, a transceiver, a shovel and a probe.
“File a trip plan with someone who knows what you’re doing, where you’re going and when to expect you back in case they need to contact us on your behalf,” said Shepherd.
“Take what you need in case you need to spend the night out in the cold. We cannot always get to you when it’s dark or really stormy, so if there’s any kind of delay, you need to be able to take care of yourself out there.”
Checking the forecast and getting to know the area you plan to visit is an important part of preparation.
“Research the area you’re going to, even if you’ve been there before and look up avalanche conditions the day of your trip,” said Shepherd.
“You are your own best resource out there. Having training, equipment, and being prepared to deal with the situation is your best chance at survival.”
The Golden-Field RCMP is helping the BC Coroners Service investigate the man’s death.
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