Kent-Harrison Search and Rescue had another busy year in 2024.
KHSAR volunteers responded to 49 calls this past year. While last year's call volume was lower than than 2023's 66 calls, more hours were logged last year than in 2023.
Operations this year included ground searches, swift water and flat water searches, rope rescues, medical rescues and mutual aid calls. Search and Rescue volunteers logged a staggering 109 training events over the past year.
All KHSAR volunteers were certified in first aid – including advanced and wilderness first aid – and helicopter hover entry and exit. The local Search and Rescue organization gained a number of important positions this past year, including two ground search team leaders, a swiftwater technician and seven rope rescue technicians.
In addition to new certifications and skills, KHSAR gained some upgrades to their fleet of vehicles. Their mobile rescue truck underwent a full chassis replacement and a box refurbishing; the truck is 20 years old. KHSAR also purchased another transport vehicle.
KHSAR accepted three new members-in-training, who are working to become fully operational this year.
Overall, 27 volunteers logged 8,111 hours in training, maintenance, calls and administrative duties, which averages out to just over 300 hours for each volunteer.
"We’d like to extend our gratitude to our tasking agencies, local and provincial governments, and communities for the support they’ve given us (in 2024)," KHSAR stated in a Facebook post. "Most of all, we’d like to thank our volunteer’s families and loved ones, whose understanding and support allows us to help others 24/7, 365 days of the year."
