CANDACE WU
news@pqbnews.com
If you like the outdoors and the idea of giving back to your community, joining the Arrowsmith Search and Rescue team may be a good way to start 2014.
As of next week, ASAR is starting their 80-hour course training new members.
"It's the most highly skilled professional volunteer position in Canada," said ASAR director of public relations Lonny Barr, whose been with the club for four years. "And once you are certified you can practice anywhere in Canada."
The course runs from mid-January to mid-June, roughly once per week on Thursday nights from 7 to 9 p.m. This course is only offered once every two years.
"It's a very intense program," said Barr. "We're looking for individuals who will be committed and preferably have first aid or outdoor experience."
Barr said the program teaches people different styles of searching, how to approach a helicopter, how to read a map and compass and various other wilderness survival skills.
"It's really rewarding," said Barr about his time spent as a search and rescue volunteer.
Additionally, once a person has completed the basic training course he or she may further their education by specializing in a particular area such as swift water, rope rescue or tracking, among others.
The six-month course is free of charge.
"We're a volunteer-based group," said Barr.
The club has close to 40 active members and is seeking committed new recruits.
"To be a part of the search and rescue team you don't necessarily have to be out in the bush," reminds Barr. "There are a lot of different positions."
If you are interested, visit www.asar.ca or contact Lonny Barr at 250-731-4224.