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Heavy water flow and an extremely difficult terrain were a challenge for the crew involved in the efforts. Shannon Falls runs through a number of pool systems, and the one which the three had gone into was accessible, Banks said.

“There’s some accessible trails from the top of the Sea to Sky Gondola as well as you can hike up the sides of Shannon Falls to get to that area,” she said.

“It looks beautiful, it’s a sunny day, but given the extensive water flow that comes off the mountains, and the number of incidents that we’ve had in the Squamish area lately, people just need to be prepared.”

Photo by Francis Georgian / PNG

Since the Sea to Sky Gondola opened in 2014, the location has been gaining popularity from both locals and tourists. But in light of this tragedy, the RCMP and Squamish SAR are reminding the public that the pool systems and hard to reach areas can pose a serious risk.

“Unless you have the knowledge of that area, the expertise and the right equipment you should not be up there,” Banks said.

John Willcox of Squamish SAR, said they have responded to a number of accidents in the pools, though adds that this is the first fatality he has responded to.

“We’ve had a number of dogs that have gone into the water, and people that have slipped into the water as well. Fortunately in the past they have been able to be rescued,” Willcox said.

“The granite there is beautify carved by the water over hundreds of years, and it’s very slick, and with the spray and some of the lichen that builds up on it, people don’t realize how slippery it is.”

While the team responds to nearly 100 calls every year, Willcox said he expects it to go over the average this year.

“Every year seems to be busier and busier,” he said. “And with more volume comes more responses.”

Photo by Bob McHugh / PROVINCE

Photo by Francis Georgian / PNG

Photo by Francis Georgian / PNG

Photo by NICK PROCAYLO / PostMedia

Photo by NICK PROCAYLO / PostMedia

Photo by NICK PROCAYLO / PostMedia

Photo by Nick Procaylo / PNG

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— With files from Scott Brown, Canadian Press