West Shore RCMP officers conducting search-and-rescue training in Gowlland Todd Provincial Park were in the right place to help a family that encountered a bear.
The mother, father and two young children were distraught after seeing the bear Saturday afternoon and became disoriented when they ran away.
But they ended up running right into the officers, who let them know who they were before looking around to make sure the bear wasn’t still in the area.
The group got a picture together before the officers escorted the family members back to their vehicle.
West Shore RCMP said they have noticed an increase in lost hikers, which can often require officers to hike into the bush after dark to rescue them.
They offered the following tips to hikers:
* Always tell someone where you are going and what route you will take.
* Take a map if you are new to an area or snap a picture of the trail system to keep on your phone.
* Bring along first-aid supplies.
* Check the weather forecast.
* Carry a whistle because if you need help it carries farther than your voice.
* If you see a bear, make calm, loud noise and back away slowly.
