MEMBERSHIP

Becoming a member

Salt Spring Island SAR is always interested in new members. The following is a list of things to consider if you’re considering joining the team.

Time

We meet every Tuesday night from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. The first Tuesday of each month is a regular business meeting. The other Tuesdays are reserved for training towards the Ground Search and Rescue (GSAR) certification and discussion of SAR operational issues.

Approximate time commitment: 8 to 12 hours per month.

Training

SAR members are constantly refining old skills and learning new ones to maintain a high level of proficiency for a variety of circumstances. Members must obtain their GSAR certification, Occupational First-aid (OFA) Level I, and Radio Operator’s Restricted Certificate (ROC). Other skills include wilderness first-aid, high-angle rope rescue, human tracking, and team leadership.

There is at least one training exercise per month on a Saturday.

Financial

There is a one-time, non-refundable membership fee of $50 to join Search & Rescue. The cost of other courses varies. It is the responsibility of the members to pay for their first-aid and radio operator certificates.

SAR members are responsible for providing their own outdoor gear, including rain gear, hiking boots, pack, and other items. A detailed equipment list is provided to all new members.

2009/2010