“Plan ahead & make safe decisions” Central Cariboo Search & Rescue

Central Cariboo Search and Rescue (CCSR) has been quite active for the first 6 months of the year.

SAR Team Chief Scott Short said one encouraging statistic is they’ve seen a significant decrease in auto extrication calls.

“During the first six months of the year, we’ve responded to 61 motor vehicle extrication incidents compared to 115 during the same period last year. However, our Land Search and Rescue call volume remains steady. We responded to 12 call outs so far this year and are on pace to match last year’s numbers.”

This year Central Cariboo Search and Rescue assisted BC Emergency Health Services crews in steep and slippery terrain, responded to iPhone collision detection activations, rescued injured mountain bikers, even assisted Quesnel Search and Rescue with a person in the Fraser River.

“One of those incidents took place in a remote location that could only be accessed by helicopter, reminding us just how quickly an enjoyable day outdoors can become a challenging rescue,” Short said.

With summer in full swing many people will be heading into the back country to enjoy a variety of activities.

“Before you head out, take a couple of minutes to leave a trip plan with someone you trust,” Short said, “Tell them where you are going, the route you plan to take, and when you expect to be home. If possible, send them a photo of yourself taken that day showing what you’re wearing. It may seem like a small thing but that information can make a tremendous difference if our team is called to search for you.”

If your plans include being on the water, Central Cariboo Search and Rescue wants you to make sure everyone has a properly fitting life jacket, better yet, wear it.

“We’ve seen far too many incidents where a life jacket was available but not being worn when it mattered most,” Short added.

And most of us rely on our phones for navigation these days but batteries don’t last forever especially when GPS is running.

“Carry a backup battery or power bank and don’t assume your phone will make it through the day. If you find yourself or someone else in trouble call 911 as soon as possible. The sooner we’re notified the sooner we can get the right resources moving your way,” Short said.