05/11/2026
Vernon SAR has had a full week — and that might be putting it mildly.
The week began with a mutual aid callout involving our swift-water and boat teams. Then on Thursday, we were called out again locally for another swift-water incident. Thankfully, everyone involved made it home safely.
Later that same afternoon, RCMP requested assistance for an overdue cyclist. He had set out on a long-distance ride using the rail trail as part of his route and failed to return. Vernon SAR deployed boat teams, e-bike teams, drone teams, and mutual aid support from COSAR to help cover the Kelowna area as well. After several hours of searching, the missing rider was located in the early evening.
Friday night, the pagers went off once again — this time for a rescue on Enderby Cliffs. An individual had fallen down a steep section of terrain and suffered injuries. RCMP and Enderby Fire reached the subject first, with Vernon SAR joining shortly after. What followed was a true team effort involving a lengthy stretcher carry down difficult terrain. Thankfully, our motorized stretcher wheel made a huge difference once it arrived on scene.
Over the course of the week, we worked alongside RCMP, Fire, BCEHS — and at times, all three together. Strong working relationships matter in this line of work, and we’re fortunate to have great people beside us when things get busy. Those that fire together, wire together.
To round out the week, VSAR’s medical team completed recertification on extended medical protocols, while two of our members successfully completed the Ground Search Team Leader course.
We’re proud to say we now have two new Team Leaders in the organization.
Please help us congratulate them — they earned it!
There were many lessons learned this week.
Rivers – and many creeks are swollen and running fast with spring freshet. While the surface may appear smooth, the current is swift and strong and can easily carry people away. It is still best to avoid the river and creeks until water lowers to safer levels.
Training: A friendly reminder that it is important get the knowledge and skills you need before heading out. Forewarned is forearmed!
Trip Plans: No one ever expects to get into trouble outdoors. A turn in the weather, mistake in judgment, unexpected injury, equipment failure, or sudden nightfall can quickly change any recreational outing into a crisis. Does anyone know where you have gone and when you expect to return?
Take The Essentials: Think of what survival items you should have with you, outside of those that you would take for your activity. Things such as fire-starter, a headlamp or flashlight (a cell phone is not good enough), signalling device, navigation tools, extra food and water, clothing, small first aid kit, pocketknife, emergency shelter and sun protection are all items that you should have in any survival situation. A light source is one of the most often forgotten pieces of equipment. While we don’t plan to be out after dark, it does often occur and cell phones typically do not provide light for the duration of our journey.
Be aware of Wildlife: Bears and cougars are in the vicinity. Be alert and pay attention for bears and signs of bear activity and carry bear spray. Sows with cubs are active at this time of year. If you have a close encounter, remain still and stay calm. Do not run – attacks are rare. Have your deterrent at the ready, slowly increase your distance from the bear or cougar and move out of the area.
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