MEDIA RELEASE
May 13, 2026
As British Columbians prepare for the Victoria Day long weekend, the BC Search and Rescue Association (BCSARA) is cautioning outdoor enthusiasts that while BC offers incredible opportunities for recreation, search and rescue realities can look very different depending on where you are in the province.
“In many parts of British Columbia, especially in remote and northern regions, help could be hours away,” says Dale Parker, BCSARA President. “Distance, terrain, weather, access routes, and limited connectivity can all affect how quickly search and rescue groups are able to reach someone in need.”
“In Northern BC, we don’t just respond—we mobilize across huge distances. A search can begin hours before we even reach the last known point,” says Brian Lamond, North Peace SAR. “Preparation is critical when help isn’t immediately accessible.”
Last year, BC’s 78 volunteer ground search and rescue groups responded to approximately 1,940 incidents across the province. More than 3,200 highly trained volunteers collectively donated more than 500,000 hours.
While Southern and coastal regions often see incidents involving hikers, trail runners, mountain bikers, paddlers, and climbers, northern and interior regions frequently involve hunters, ATV and UTV users, resource road travellers, remote anglers, foragers, and backcountry campers. Regardless of activity or location, preparedness remains critical.
BCSARA is encouraging everyone heading outdoors this long weekend to “Be AdventureSmart” by using the free tools, resources, and educational materials available through our program, BC AdventureSmart. Before heading out this long weekend:
- Make a trip plan and leave it with someone you trust
- Check weather, terrain, and local conditions
- Carry essential gear (communications) and extra supplies
- Prepare for limited or no cell service
- Understand that rescue response times may vary significantly depending on your location (know your location)
“Outdoor enthusiasts can reduce the impacts on search and rescue through simple preparation,” says Sandra Riches, Executive Director of BC AdventureSmart. “Before heading outdoors this long weekend, think about what could happen if you became lost, injured, or stranded — and whether you are prepared to manage the situation until search and rescue arrives.”
Heading outdoors this long weekend? Start with BC AdventureSmart @bcadvsmart
Expert Webinar Series
Summer 2026 Webinar Series 
https://bcsara.com/outdoor-education/events/
Pack Like a Pro https://bcsara.com/outdoor-education/pack-like-a-pro/
Outdoor Safety Programs https://www.adventuresmart.ca/programs/
Trip Plan https://www.adventuresmart.ca/trip-plan/
Share your plan with an emergency contact.
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Media Contact: BC Search and Rescue Association
media@bcsara.com | 
www.bcsara.com
About BCSARA
Ground Search and Rescue (GSAR) in British Columbia is provided solely by highly trained volunteers. On call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, these skilled professionals provide their time, dedication, and expertise at no cost to the individuals they rescue. BC SAR groups have never failed to respond to an activation in the 20-year history of the BCSARA organization. BCSARA is proud to represent the 3,200 GSAR volunteers in BC who make up 78 groups across the province. BC GSAR responded to 1,940 SAR incidents in 2025 and volunteered 500,000 + hours.
How to request SAR help
All requests must go through 911 or, if using a satellite phone, through the Emergency Coordination Centre at 1-800-663-3456. Do NOT wait 24 hours to report someone overdue or missing. SAR groups can only be activated by a requesting agency such as the police or EHS. There is no charge for search and rescue in British Columbia. To donate to support these volunteers, please visit here.