Emergency services will soon have a new tool in their arsenal to locate missing persons thanks to a dedicated group of volunteers.
In late December, Badlands Search and Rescue submitted their application to Alberta Search and Rescue to become certified in search and rescue.
It is expected they will go operational in the spring.
“At the end of December, we submitted our application to SAR Alberta, to become a certified search and rescue team,” said Guy Latour, a member of Badlands Search and Rescue. “We’re working to put ourselves in a position where when we are certified, we can go operational. In May or June, I’ll do the final course for our members and then we’ll be operational.”
Badlands Search and Rescue recently received their official society status and have put together a board of directors and established society bylaws.
From now until they are certified, they are doing anything but waiting. The members, who are volunteers, have been busy training.
“We’re getting familiar with the area. In November, on the coldest day, we did a big hike through Midland Park along the railway track. We’re preparing for the opportunity, when it arises,” said Latour.
Badlands Search and Rescue was started in response to a lack of any such organization currently in the area, the nearest being Calgary. The hope is RCMP detachments in a large radius around Drumheller will call upon Badlands Search and Rescue.
“There is nobody out here right now. Once we build relationships and trust, we’ll be getting calls,” said Latour.
They are also searching for volunteers willing to fill a variety of roles, many of which are in a support capacity, such as fundraising and logistics.
“We’re always looking for members. I would stress there is always something for someone to do. For people out in the field, there are standards for training they have to meet. But, there are roles for people on the board, search base, and other opportunities to volunteer,” said Latour.
Volunteering requires a commitment in terms of training and practice. It can also be a rewarding and challenging experience.
“There is a commitment. You have to attend a certain number of practices, training, searches or mock searches. There is also the outdoor gear you need,” said Latour. “I’ve saved lives as part of teams and it’s absolutely the most rewarding thing you can be a part of. It can be demanding too. I’ve been part of searches where things haven’t turned out.”
Anyone interested in volunteering are encouraged to contact Latour at 403-823-1364.
