A Salute to the work of Ground Search and Rescue workers from the Legislature

The importance to communities of the work of Ground Search and Rescue units across the province made for the theme of a presentation from North Coast MLA Jennifer Rice on Monday, with the Prince Rupert unit getting a particular mention as the MLA touched on the dangers of the job and the support that the provincial government is providing.

One of my local organizations, Prince Rupert Ground Search and Rescue, was recently on a call when the weather was, characteristically, pouring sideways rain and with gale force winds, when their central command tent gave way. These conditions are typical for the north coast, and a more fixed and robust shelter for volunteers is sincerely needed. 

 These dedicated volunteers are not only volunteering their time saving lives but are also out fundraising for the equipment to do their job. A tremendous amount of work has gone into organizing and carrying out a local fundraiser so people can work with the equipment they truly need.

Ms Rice also made note of some of the use that ongoing funding that the province provides for, listing off where the money is allocated from.

The province recognizes GSAR groups as a critical resource in B.C., and SAR is supported with direct operating costs. Last year government provided close to $9 million in operational funding, including $5.64 million in support of operational tasks, equipment repair or replacement, helicopter costs, mileage and meals; $2.7 million from gaming funds for equipment and training; $250,000 for GSAR training with the Justice Institute; $35,000 to support administrative functions with BCSARA; $25,000 to support travel for the annual BCSARA board meeting; and $254,000 in liability insurance for volunteer and SAR directors and officers. 

As well,  the Parliamentary Secretary for Emergency Preparedness observed how Emergency Management BC also shares the position of British Columbia Ground Search and Rescue that there be no charge for rescue services, as that could very well mean that it may impact as whether those who are lost or injured seek out assistance.

I wanted to just convey that we, at emergency management B.C., support the B.C. Search and Rescue Association's position that charging for a search and rescue response could directly affect whether or not a lost or injured person will request help, as well as the timelines of that call. 

 I often hear of people being very critical of people who need a rescue and talking about charging them as a solution to preventing people from making these types of choices. But again, I don't ever want to see someone not call for help out of fear of the cost that would be incurred. Anyone who is requesting SAR support is urged to contact the authorities without delay.

Ms. Rice's comments in the Legislature of yesterday can be viewed below:



In addition to the regular year to year funding, the province recently announced close to 19 million dollars in one time funding to be delivered over the course of three years.

Province steps up with funding for Ground Search and Rescue across BC

Locally, a fund raising event took place last month to help the Prince Rupert Ground Search and Rescue unit towards its goal of purchasing a new command post trailer.

Prince Rupert to celebrate its Ground Search and Rescue crew this Saturday with Fund Raising event at the Crest

If you wish to contribute to their work or volunteer your services, you can learn more about Prince Rupert Ground Search and Rescue from their Facebook page.

For more items of note related to Emergency Responders in the Northwest see our archive page here.

Cross posted from the North Coast Review