Video Credit Check News

After a 35-year-old skier was found seriously injured on a steep slope at Vancouver Island’s Mount Cain, search and rescue teams arrived by helicopter and collaborated with other emergency responders to ensure a safe extraction.

On Saturday, Comox Valley Search & Rescue (CVSAR) responded to Mount Cain, located northwest of Campbell River, when the skier “suffered a serious fall and was found unconscious,” according to a social media post by the group this weekend.

CVSAR President Darren Boss reported that the incident occurred on a slope with an approximate 30-degree angle.

The critical Class D Fixed Line (CDFL) rescue took place in the west bowl of the mountain, outside the ski boundaries. Here, “the dedicated patrol team at Mt. Cain acted swiftly, initiating rescue efforts and preparing for air assistance.”

Boss stated that no one witnessed the fall, and the skier was discovered “with a decreased level of consciousness,” prompting an initial response from Mt. Cain staff.

Facing a “time crunch,” SAR crews were flown to Mt. Cain by 49 North Helicopters after being picked up from Courtenay Airpark.

“He fell, caught an edge, I believe, and fell 70 to 100 feet on a ridge. He was not wearing a helmet and then went in and out of consciousness when he hit the bottom, suffering multiple injuries as well as a head injury,” CVSAR’s Rich Swanson told CHEK News on Sunday.

Swanson provided care to the victim on the mountainside.

“When we arrived, six individuals who were already on the scene had dug a bit of a shelf,” he added.

“It was between a 20- to 35-degree slope, but they did a good job digging in a little bench, which had him somewhat on a level area.”

By the time Comox Valley-based SAR teams arrived, the staff and a doctor already on the scene had partially stabilized the skier using a vacuum spine board.

The ski hill near Woss, which is primarily run by volunteers, is operated by the Mount Cain Alpine Park Society. According to the Regional District of Mount Waddington, “At Mount Cain, you’ll find deep powder, 21 runs, with 1499 vertical feet of terrain.”

The resort is typically open on weekends and holidays from early December to April, with the backcountry offering a “multitude of bowls and gladed areas…”

CVSAR noted that the mountain had “expertly prepared” landing zones for rescue helicopters — one for 49N, and another for an Ascent Air ambulance.

“Our team completed the packaging and transported the injured skier using an Aerial Rescue Platform in a CDFL operation to the Mt. Cain parking area, where BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS) took over care,” the post read.

After the skier was handed over to paramedics, the helicopter returned to the slope to pick up Boss and the rest of the team before transporting them back to Courtenay Airpark.

Photo Credit Comox Valley Search And Rescue

In the early hours of December 31, 2024, a fire broke out along the boardwalk of the historic hamlet of Telegraph Cove. Despite the best efforts of volunteer firefighters from nearby communities, parts of the iconic boardwalk and many buildings were lost. The impact of the fire is being felt far and wide, as Telegraph Cove was a beloved treasure to many. The outpouring of support from people across the globe has been simply astonishing. Your words have uplifted our family during this tragic and difficult time, and we are so thankful.

The purpose of this fundraiser is to assist in restoring the Cove for the 2025 season. The fire has presented Telegraph Cove Resorts with a challenge of unimaginable magnitude. We don’t yet know what the road to recovery will look like, but our plan is to begin repairs immediately. We appreciate your support during this time, as we know that many of the recovery project’s needs will not be covered by insurance. We are working hard to ensure that Telegraph Cove is restored to the very best of our ability so that visitors can continue to enjoy the magic of this special place.

Click here to visit the fundraising page.

Say hello to Jason Johnson from the Sayward Futures Society, the dedicated land managers of the trails used for the Kusam Klimb in Sayward, BC. Their efforts ensure that proceeds from the event contribute to maintaining the trails, as well as supporting the Kelsey Wharf. Thanks to their hard work, the Kusam Klimb continues to thrive and offer an unforgettable adventure.

Sayward Fire Chief Frank Morgan talks about the ties between the Kusam Klimb and the Sayward Volunteer Fire Department, and how the community benefits with additional fire rescue resources.

You can donate to the Fire Rescue Society here: https://raceroster.com/events/2025/95705/kusam-klimb-2025/fundraising-organization/63683.

A short-eared owl flies silently around a salt marsh in search of a rodent in British Columbia.

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Winter can be a beautiful season, but it also brings certain challenges, like preventing your pipes from freezing. Frozen pipes can burst and cause extensive water damage, leaving homeowners with hefty repair bills. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to safeguard your plumbing from freezing temperatures. Here’s how to keep your pipes warm and your home safe.

1. Insulate Your Pipes

One of the most effective ways to prevent freezing is to insulate your pipes, especially those located in unheated areas like basements, attics, and crawl spaces. Pipe insulation sleeves, heat tape, and heat cables can be easily found at your local hardware store and are simple to install.

2. Seal Leaks and Drafts

Cold air can enter your home through leaks and drafts, increasing the risk of frozen pipes. Seal any cracks or openings around windows, doors, and vents with caulking or weather stripping. Don’t forget to check for gaps in the walls where pipes enter your home.

3. Keep the Thermostat Consistent

Maintain a consistent temperature in your home, even when you’re away. Set your thermostat to no lower than 55°F (13°C) to ensure your pipes stay warm enough to prevent freezing. It might slightly increase your heating bill, but it’s a small price to pay compared to the cost of repairing burst pipes.

4. Open Cabinet Doors

In particularly cold weather, open the cabinet doors under your kitchen and bathroom sinks. This allows warm air to circulate around the pipes, reducing the likelihood of freezing.

5. Let Faucets Drip

During extreme cold snaps, let your faucets drip slightly. Running water, even at a trickle, is less likely to freeze. This is particularly important for faucets connected to pipes in unheated areas.

6. Disconnect Outdoor Hoses

Before winter sets in, disconnect and drain outdoor hoses. Shut off the water supply to outdoor faucets and drain the lines to prevent water from freezing and expanding, which can cause pipes to burst.

7. Install Frost-Proof Faucets

Consider installing frost-proof faucets for outdoor spigots. These are designed to keep the water further inside the house where it’s warmer, reducing the risk of freezing.

8. Use Heating Cables or Heat Tape

For especially vulnerable pipes, use heating cables or heat tape. These products are designed to provide consistent heat and can prevent pipes from freezing in extremely cold temperatures. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe installation and use.

9. Monitor and Maintain Your Heating System

Ensure your heating system is in good working order. Schedule regular maintenance and inspect it for any issues. A well-functioning heating system is crucial to maintaining a warm environment and preventing frozen pipes.

With a little preparation and the right precautions, you can keep your pipes from freezing and avoid the headaches of water damage and costly repairs. Remember, the key is to keep the cold out and the warmth in. Stay warm and enjoy a worry-free winter!