Activities

Below is a partial list of the activities, programs and accomplishments of BCSARA since 2002.

  • Establishment of the SAR Volunteer Memorial with PEPAir and RCMSAR
  • Regional, cross region and provincial GSAR workshops with EMBC
  • Alternative Support Model project leading to $33m in additional funding for GSAR over 6 years
  • Continuing work on fully sustainable funding
  • New on-line data system with licensing for all GSAR Groups
  • The largest all volunteer Critical Incident Stress Management in North America.
  • Implementation of a dedicated SAR Specialist position within EMBC
  • Establishment of a Joint Health and Safety Committee
  • Development of a Risk Assessment and Decision Making Support (RADeMS) safety tool, Field Guides, and Training Record Books through NIF Grants
  • Increased access and assistance with acquiring Gaming funds
  • Increased reimbursement rates for task related costs
  • Course Reviews and Re-writes
  • Operational Reviews/Debriefs
  • SAR Group Insurance coverage
  • Provision of new Swiftwater Standards, training and equipment through a NIF Grant
  • Federal NIF Grant that has seen EVERY SAR Group in BC receive radios capable of provincial interoperability
  • Federal NIF Grants that have seen EVERY SAR Group in BC receive PLBs and In-Reach tracking units
  • Increased access to training
  • Strengthened collaborative relationships with Tasking Agencies and stakeholders
  • A collective voice representing the views of all SAR Groups in BC
  • The AdventureSmart program in cooperation with EMBC and others
  • A voice with the SAR Volunteer Association of Canada
  • A voice via EMBC with the Ground SAR Council of Canada
  • Twice co-hosting the National SAR Secretariat SARScene conference which provides an opportunity for SAR folks (unpaid and paid) from across the country to take part in training, workshops and demonstrations on all things SAR related
  • Representation on the SARVAC NIF Grant National Training Standards project
  • Current formation of the first Provincial Training Committee
  • Webpage and social media presence to improve communications internally and externally.