**** Via Halifax SAR
The 2023-2024 year has been Halifax Search and Rescue’s busiest year
Our dedicated volunteers, with their unwavering commitment, continue to have an impact on our community. They have responded to unprecedented calls, working tirelessly to aid the lost, missing, and injured not just in our coverage area, but during mutual aid searches.
Of the 76 operational periods our team was active on this year, 47% of those callouts were related to civil emergencies- responding to climate emergencies. These included hurricanes, wildfires, floods, and extreme snowfall. We continue to support our unhoused neighbours during these events. During the heavy snow fall, team members responded to our first requests for assistance from individuals on Halifax Regional Municipalities Voluntary Vulnerable Person Registry.
We couldn’t have done it without our members’ unwavering dedication to training and development. Team members have continued to advance our training and team capabilities. Our Remote Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) crew achieved the much sought-after Transport Canada Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) certification, allowing them to fly further during an operation. Our marine members assisted in the rescue of over 30 individuals during our flooding.
For the first time, we have set up a mountain bike committee, with members specifically equipped and prepared to conduct searches from mountain bikes. Thanks to support and funding provided by the the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia, we have been able to roll out Applied Suicide Intervention Skills (ASIST) training. Meanwhile, team members from Logistics, Transport, Communications, Treasury, and many other areas continue to support the teams operations.
We also recognize the incredible support from all teams that form part of RESAR and our trusted partners that respond in to our area on mutual aid, when we need assistance.
Our year wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of all team members and our community partners. Your support is invaluable, and we would be lost without it.
Thank you for standing with us.
Check out this snapshot from 2023-2024 to see more facts about our year.
