Search & Rescue Groups are located in every major population center, and many smaller communities as well. Often one SAR group may serve an entire regional district. Some groups are also associated with a Road Rescue capability for their area. Check out the TEAMS page of our website for contact information of the group nearest you. You can also ask for information at your local RCMP/ police detachment or call the regional Provincial Emergency Program office. www.pep.bc.ca

Are you paid?

No. Search & Rescue groups provide their service on a volunteer basis to the local police, BC Ambulance Service, local regional disaster plannning, or as requested by the Provincial Emergency Program (PEP) to assist another group . Volunteers do receive reimbursement for expenses according to PEP policies, and are provided with WCB coverage while on an Operation (Task) or authorized Training event.

How often do they train?

Local training times & dates are determined by the local groups. Often their training will focus on particular needs of their area in addition to regular practice of their core Ground Search & Rescue skills. Ongoing Training can be as often as once a week with one weekend day per month. Check with your local team for details.

What are the minimum requirements?

While PEP does allow registered volunteers as young as 16 (with parental consent), most SAR groups will have a minimum age of 18 yrs old. Typical applications include a requirement for a police background check, along with a minimum requirement for a basic First Aid course. Certainly the ground work does require a level of fitness, however many SAR Teams may have needs or roles that can be filled by a variety of age or fitness levels. Above all, the time commitment & willingness to serve your community is paramount to your volunteer involvement.

How much time is involved?

Depending on your local group's current needs, the time commitment can be as little as 6 hrs a month + any actual Tasks, or as much time as you'ld like to devote. Some groups have minimum requirements in order to maintain an active membership within the group. Anticipate above average requirements as an initial volunteer, in order to complete a 74hr GSAR course.

What kind of training can I get?

British Columbia's network of PEP recognized SAR groups utilize the training standards set out by PEP in conjunction with provincial SAR Advisory Committee. Training Standards are administered by the Justice Institute of BC, and taught for the most part by volunteer instructors. The initial standard of Ground Search & Rescue (GSAR) is taught/administered by local certified instructors at the group level. This 74hr course is the minimum requirement & a prerequisite before other courses are offered. Additonal courses are offered at Regional or Provincial levels such as Team Leader, Rope Rescue Team member, etc. Check out the SAR program within the Emergency Management Division of the Justice Institute at www.jibc.bc.ca.

How does a callout originate?

A missing person is first reported to the local police. The locating of missing persons on ground or inland waters within Canada is the responsibility of the local police authority. (Marine & Air situations are handled by Canadian Forces.) In British Columbia, the police have available to them a network of 100 SAR teams, that will respond 24hrs a day, 365 days per year. Currently there are close to 2500 registered volunteers within this network.