In the midst of a recruitment effort, Ridge Meadows Search & Rescue, and some 80 other search teams across the province, were recognized for their compromises and sacrifices on Sunday, March 2.
Kelly Greene, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, spoke of their dedication to people in B.C. during the Search and Rescue Volunteer Memorial Day, calling them heroes.
“Our province is fortunate to have some of the most skilled, passionate, and selfless search and rescue volunteers in the world. Together, the BC Search and Rescue Association, Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue, and PEP Air have saved the lives of thousands of people. They are heroes," Greene said.
“Search and rescue volunteers are on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, providing their time and expertise to help people throughout British Columbia. While much of their work happens far from public view, their impact is felt across the entire province. They are the lifelines in our greatest moments of need, and we are incredibly grateful for their dedication. To all those volunteering on search and rescue teams, on behalf of all British Columbians, thank you. We are forever grateful," Greene added.
The local recruitment blitz began last month, and saw candidates take a three-hour hike on Saturday with the team.
It was what team leader Brent Boulet called a "get to know you a bit more," opportunity. Following this weekend's hike, the interview process begins. Remaining recruits will then take part in an overnight scenario April 5 and 6. The organization is hoping to bring on 10 new members in 2025.
“It takes a remarkable kind of person to be a search and rescue volunteer: someone who is driven, courageous and has an unwavering commitment to helping others," Greene noted.
The Maple Ridge-based team – which has been around since 1969, responds to types of calls, from local law enforcement to wilderness and urban searches and rescues. And, with such diverse terrain to cover – Golden Ears Provincial Park being one of the largest and most varied areas for response – the local members require training in ground rescues and searches, first aid, swiftwater and boat rescues, rope rescues, and avalanche search and rescues.
These search and rescue missions can come with an incredible cost, said Greene. Since 1967, there have been 17 search-and-rescue volunteers who have lost their lives while serving British Columbians. Their sacrifices will never be forgotten.
“Today, on Search and Rescue Memorial Day, I would like to invite all British Columbians to reflect on those heroic volunteers who lost their lives in the pursuit of safety for others, their loves ones, and their service to the people of our province,” Greene said.
More information will be posted to the RMSAR Facebook page, as well as the team's website.
