Ridge Meadows Search and Rescue is concerned about the length of time a rescue will take if one is needed in Golden Ears Provincial Park.

With Golden Ears Parkway, the main road into the park, closed to vehicle traffic because of damage done by the atmospheric river that hit the region in October, search and rescue are warning if a helicopter can't land because of weather, then a land rescue will take much longer. 

Search and rescue team leader Brent Boulet said he has been to the park recently and has seen three major washouts along the road, that he said, will take extensive work to repair. 

And, he said, BC Environment and Parks has given no real timeline, yet, of when those repairs will be complete. 

Currently camping reservations, which have opened province-wide for the upcoming season, are on hold for Golden Ears park. 

However, the park is still open to the public for hiking and biking. 

"Essentially if somebody is motivated enough they could do a long hike further into the back country of Golden Ears park," explained Boulet, noting the concern they have is if people venture far into the back country and need rescuing, that rescue could take longer than normal. 

If a helicopter rescue is not viable because of the weather conditions, search and rescue would be limited to hiking or biking themselves, to reach those who require rescuing. 

"We also don't have vehicle access to the park right now," he explained, adding that they are still waiting to confirm whether from the ministry whether they would be able to use an all-terrain vehicle, ATV, or utility task vehicle, UTV, for a rescue in the park.

Boulet just wants hikers and cyclists to be aware that help, if they should need it, could be delayed. 

"My advice would be just to bear in mind that rescue may be delayed. The further you go into the park, the greater delay in getting rescued and just keep that in mind," he said.

And, he added, people should carry the 10 essentials with them when heading out. Those include carrying: a flashlight; a fire making kit, a whistler or mirror; extra food and water; extra clothing; navigational and communication aids; first aid kit; emergency shelter; a pocket knife; and sun protection. 

For more information about safety when adventuring outdoors go to: .