B.C. says hikers can depend on mobile maps in woods, but rescue group concerned

VICTORIA – British Columbia’s government says hikers can put away their fold-up maps and depend on their mobile devices when heading out into the back country now that high-resolution topographical maps can be downloaded for free.

But the B.C. Search and Rescue Association is worried the government’s new map message tells hikers they can wander off into the wilderness and depend on technology to get them home.

Search and Rescue Association president Don Bindon says he’s concerned the new maps will give hikers a false sense of security when preparation is what is needed prior to any outdoor adventure.

Bindon says he’s old-school and always carries fold-out maps along with communication devices.

The Forests, Lands and Resource Operations Ministry says the maps are especially designed to provide high-resolution images on mobile devices and allow users to zoom into areas without compromising the images.

The ministry says the new generation of maps can be downloaded and installed onto mobile devices.