When must I be available for callouts?
Sunshine Coast SAR members must be available for searches, rescues, and other emergencies 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
We also take part in committees, fund-raising, equipment maintenance, and the day-to-day running of a team of volunteers.
How many hours must I commit to SAR?
The most important thing when considering whether or not to volunteer is to evaluate the time commitment. If you will be unable to meet these minimum requirements, please do not apply.
- Sunshine Coast SAR members dedicate an average of 200 hours a year to the team including training and preparedness, active search and rescue activities and committee work.
- You must be available, at a minimum, to attend training every Tuesday evening (3 hours average) and one or two weekend days a month (6-8 hours average).
- Members in Training (MITs) must attend 100% of the Ground Search and Rescue (GSAR) course (80 hr. total), and a minimum of 50% attendance at team training and searches thereafter.
- In addition to regular training, there are various SAR courses offered by the Justice Institute of BC, and other providers, some financed by Emergency Management BC, and others paid for by the team’s own fundraising. These are usually 24 hours (three to four consecutive days). You are also expected to maintain your first aid certifications.
- Members are also expected to take part in community education events, team management through committee work, and team fundraising.