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Fort McMurray Search & Rescue Society

NEW MEMBERS InFORMATION

Introduction: Welcome to Fort McMurray Search and Rescue Society. We are a trained volunteer organisation that assists the local RCMP or Emergency Services with ground search and rescue operations in the Regional Municiplaity of Wood Buffalo. We may be called to search in other areas of north eastern Alberta. Search methods include but are not limited to foot, ATV, snowmachines, helicopters and boats. Fort McMurray Search and Rescue is a non-profit organisation funded by the United Way, corporate and private donations, as well as government grants.

This page provides you with information to get you started.

1. General Monthly meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month at the Bob Lamb Education Centre at Keyano College. The meetings commence at 8pm (2000hrs). The agenda for the meeting is general SAR business followed by a training topic.

2. Members always sign in and out of SAR functions. It is a requirement for an actual search but is also practiced at meetings and training sessions.

3. A logbook and once issued, your SAR ID tag should be brought to all SAR functions. A logbook is important to document all training and experience that you have received. The ability to prove your SAR identification and qualifications is important to participate in searches.

4. Your must prepare at your own cost a 24-hr pack. Do not rush out and buy it all at once. Learn what is important to have in your pack from qualified experienced SAR members, participation in searches and training. The monthly draws at the end of each meeting offer items for your pack. Start basic!

Training Requirements: To be a qualified searcher in Alberta you are required to have the following training:

1. Search and Rescue Basics Fundamentals Course (Emergency Response Institute).

2. Standard First Aid and Level “C” CPR (or equivalent).

Highly recommended training to ensure proficiency includes: Basic Mantracking , Wilderness Survival, Map and Compass Use. Continuing education topics will also include: ATV Safety, Evidence Handling, Chainsaw Safety, Lost Person Behaviour, Knot Tying, Urban Searching, GPS Use.

Participation in Fort McMurray SAR: As with any volunteer organisation, participation in any training course or exercise, actual search or meetings is solely based on your availability.

Steps to Complete When Joining SAR:

1. Complete the membership form (includes providing telephone numbers you use for search call out contact).

2. Complete the WCB form. SAR members are covered by Workers Compensation during actual searches and training exercises due to the fact that SAR members are tasked by the RCMP or Emergency Services.

3. Pay the $20 membership yearly fee. Memberships follow the calendar year (Jan 01 to Dec 31).

Printable brochure with more SAR Infromation is linked here.

Website: http://www.sar-fmcmurray.com