June 23, 2016 - Spring is the season when we go out on land; to spend a month (June-July). We noticed the ice condition is melting faster than any other year, the land in some areas are not safe to drive on due to softness underneath the ground (Permafrost), some little river flows drying up and some ponds dry up pretty fast. Grizzly Bears are becoming normal to see now up north which is strange, bald eagles flying around and the sun is a lot hotter than before. The shifting of some cabins are causing cracked floors or frames. Sarah Kamimmalik Gjoa Haven, NU
May 5, 2016 - I myself got lost before while on a weekend trip and without the knowledge of respect to land, water, weather and no emergency equipment, it was a learning curve for me to better understand the environment: understanding the conditions of the land, water, weather and having emergency equipment/food is a definite need when going on a day or two more trips. Understanding the sun/moon direction was one too as well as snowdrifts - snow formation, observing and studying the land, water/lakes and weather: (Looking from front, sides and back of landscapes). Water Level drop is one especially around lakes and rivers. Some hills lowered due to permafrost and the unpredictable weather - how to be prepared, what important useful tools to take and yes, extra clothing. - Sarah Kamimmalik - Gjoa Haven, NU
May 4, 2016 - My Grandpa didn't notice a deep water on the sea ice, and broke his knee with the qamutiq. I had to run to the nearest camp with ice crack to call the Rescue team. It is really important to bring a SAT phone or a SPOT device. - Anonymous
May 4, 2016 - when I was young like 14 years old I was skidooing to Iqaluit from Apex it was snowing and I couldn't see a thing. I kept traveling and when I wiped out on a snow drift. That is when I learned about the snow drift called Uqallurait they point to the prevailing wind and that is how I made it back to Apex. - Anonymous
May 4, 2016 - Preparing for the unexpected climate change by carrying the essentials for 3X the amount of time you will be out is a good way to be prepared. Let people know where and when you are going, and don't forget your SPOT. - Wayne Gregory - Cambridge Bay, NU
May 3, 2016 - Blizzards can come in quickly. I have been out skiing in the hills behind Iqaluit and suddenly the wind picks up, snow begins blowing and visibility drops. Having googles, extra clothes and knowledge of the land and trails were essential to getting home safely. - Vicki Sahanatien - Iqaluit, NU
May 3, 2016 - I appreciate you guys teaching us all about Emergency preparedness, it saddens me to hear even our leaders aren't taking advantage of spot devices, please even be prepared and sign out the spot devices. It could save your life!! - Anonymous
May 3, 2016 - You should always be ready for the unexpected, be it a fatality, unexpected guests(large animals, keep the land clean and make sure you keep your partner informed. If you would be out and you became stuck, you should always bring some rope. The safety of firearms is also crucial. When traveling by vehicle, all-terrain vehicles and by boat also should have something handy. Extra parts, rations, and water. If you leave a note to where you may be heading, you can have someone pinpoint or to the area that you are traveling to. The stories that our ancestors or parents, grandparents, friends and family or by t.v. and/or radio tell also give you an insight as to what to expect when traveling. - Anonymous