The Calgary Herald reported today that data from the Alpine Club of Canada and the American Alpine Club show that mountain adventures have gotten safer in the 1980s and has remained at that level since.  A representative of the Calgary Scrambling and Mountaineering Club attributes this to improved gear and better training available to people going into the backcountry. 

The article also points out that the outdoor enthusiasts deserve a lot of the credit; we do our homework before going out there.  We have access to a great deal of information through the Internet, local climbing groups, hiking clubs and discussion groups. 

Safety always comes down to using our heads and not losing them (pun intended.)  So carry the Ten Essentials when you head out into the mountains.  Or, if you’re like me, take your Blackberry before leaving for the subway. 

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