Saskatoon Search and Rescue

So that others may live...

Author: ssaradmin

evidence search

Recruiting / SSAR Training

Basic Searcher Training Recap

Over the past four months, our group of new recruits, including myself, has been in basic searcher training, the first step in becoming an active member of Saskatoon Search & Rescue (SSAR). Between the classroom and the field exercises there was a ton of information to absorb. Here’s a recap of our journey: In September we camped out at Blackstrap and had a busy weekend of orienteering, constructing improvised shelters, fire making, signaling (at day and night), near-water search skills, and survival discussions. It was a great weekend of testing out new gear and getting some hands-on training in the...

SSAR Training

An Evidence Search Training Day

The morning started with coffee. Not my personal thing, but most of the participants in the course appreciated the morning java fix provided by the Saskatoon Police Service – especially the searchers from Regina who’d left Regina at 6:00am to make it on time. The classroom part of the training was hosted at the spiffy new SPS Headquarters building. Spiffy in the sense that it’s new but also that it doesn’t feel like you’re in a police station. Then we were introduced to our first speaker, Dr. Ernie Walker. Had I not met him before on a real search I...

Fundraising/Donations

SGI CANADA Supports Saskatoon Search and Rescue

We are thrilled that SGI CANADA has become the first confirmed sponsor of our Emergency Communications Project and they recognize the value that search and rescue services bring to our community. “SGI CANADA is pleased to support Saskatoon Search and Rescue,” said Penny McCune, Vice President of Customer and Distribution Strategy. “I would like to take the opportunity to thank those who volunteer their time and assist Emergency Responders when crisis strikes. SGI CANADA is committed to investing in our communities and responding quickly with assistance when crisis situations arise.” As a corporate citizen, SGI CANADA believes that giving back...

Our team after a search

Activations / SSAR Training

The Anatomy of a Search Activation

The text tone on my phone sounds at 1:45 am. Without looking, I know it’s a message from Rebecca. She’s the main keeper of the callout list for Saskatoon Search and Rescue and the only person in my contact list for whom I have an audible alert tone. “SPS Activation 0145hrs: 75 yr old male. Missing since 1900 hrs. Dementia, other med concerns. Meet pkg lot Greystone Hts School, 2700 Main St. Available?” Our Search Manager, Jeff, has received a phone call from the Saskatoon Police Service Watch Commander requesting our help. After getting all the details and confirming we...

group photo

Fundraising/Donations

ShelterBox Donates Decommissioned Tent to SSAR

“Every year, thousands of communities lose their homes, their possessions, and their livelihoods.  For families in affected areas, each day becomes a battle to survive.” ShelterBox Canada provides emergency shelter and vital supplies to support communities around the world overwhelmed by disaster and humanitarian crisis. Since they began in 2000, they have responded to earthquakes, floods, volcanoes, tsunamis, hurricanes, landslides, typhoons and conflict, delivering emergency humanitarian aid to communities in need. ShelterBox Ambassador Neil Wylie is one of 85 volunteers across Canada working to promote ShelterBox, raising awareness through speaking engagements, fundraising events and generating local interest. Through a personal...