Join us
Anyone interested in joining Pemberton Search and Rescue in an operational capacity is expected to be physically fit and have basic outdoor skills and equipment.
In addition to emergency response operations, Pemberton Search and Rescue members are expected to attend both regularly scheduled and specialized training sessions. Additionally, members are expected to contribute to special projects and support community events.
Please read the following requirements carefully before submitting your application.
Applicant Requirements and Skills
Prospective members must be a resident of Pemberton Area. Preference will be given to those applicants wishing to be involved in field operations who demonstrate excellent wilderness and backcountry travel skills in all seasons and familiarity with the local area. Field members must be physically fit and possess the appropriate basic field equipment required to respond safely in and effectively for a minimum 24 hour period.
Training
Prospective members are required to complete a training program in Ground Search and Rescue (GSAR), administered by the Justice Institute of BC. The GSAR program provides volunteers with an introduction to search and rescue operations and teaches core skills used by all search and rescue teams. Upon successful completion of the GSAR program prospective members enter a probationary period for a minimum of six months. During this period new members are evaluated by senior team members and directors in both training and operational environments.
Time Commitment
Pemberton Search and Rescue is a commitment that should not be taken lightly. Please read this carefully and reflect on your ability to dedicate a large portion of your free time to the team. Tasks, training and special events and projects will take you away from friends, family and work, often at inconvenient times. Tasks (we average 35-45 per year) are completed at any hour of the day or night and can last for hours or days. Many members invest hundreds of hours of volunteer time in any given year.
Evenings and Weekends
Many of our operations occur in the evenings and on weekends. You must be available and prepared to respond at all times.
Compensation
All of our members are volunteers. There is no pay for training or responding to operations and members are also required to provide all of their own basic personal equipment. Under some circumstances there is reimbursement for certain expenses.