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EDITORIAL: The season for safety

Editor Grace Kennedy reminds readers to pack some safety with their sunscreen this summer
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(Observer file)

The sun is shining in Agassiz and Harrison, or at least it has for the last few days of May and the first days of June.

Those warm, sunny days invite us to go outside and enjoy the natural beauty all around us.

“Come hiking,” the mountains say. “Cool off in the water,” the river calls.

By all means, do it. There are few days that we can truly enjoy the summer experience before fall returns. But let’s not forget what we need to pack with us each time we go out: safety.

In the first three days of June, Kent Harrison Search and Rescue were called out to two separate SAR incidents. (Luckily, no injuries on either.) Agassiz Fire assisted with a truck rollover near Bear Creek campground in that same three day period, and had two people taken to hospital by helicopter.

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These people were kayaking, fishing and 4x4-ing their way through the sunny weekend, and were given a harsh reminder that things can go terribly wrong.

So this summer, let’s learn from their mistakes.

If you’re going out into the bush, either to fish or to hike, make sure you tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be home. Have your cellphone battery charged, and bring a flashlight and compass just in case.

If you’re on the water, wear a life jacket. Know the hazards of the river or lake and plan appropriately.

And when you’re on the road, go slow. Enjoy the views, but pay attention to what your vehicle is doing.

It doesn’t take much to pack a little safety in with your sunscreen and beach towel, and it could save your life.

-Grace Kennedy, editor



grace.kennedy@ahobserver.com

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