Image Credit: SUBMITTED/COSAR
December 31, 2022 - 11:30 AM
Central Okanagan Search and Rescue just has its third busiest year since it was established 68 years ago.
Volunteers responded to 84 calls, according to a media release from COSAR. The only years with more calls were 2021 when there were 107, and 2020 when there were 86.
More than 90% of their work took place within the Central Okanagan Regional District. However, volunteers were also called upon for assistance in Hope, Penticton, and Logan Lake.
COSAR search manager Duane Tresnich reminds the public that it’s important to to have proper training, carry the 10 essentials and file a trip plan.
“A few minutes on AdventureSmart.ca can mean the difference between life and death,” Tresnich said in the release.
READ MORE: A helicopter with night-vision goggles would be nice: COSAR
There are 55 active COSAR members who spent 4,080 hours on tasks in 2022 in addition to 17,600 hours on training, administration, fundraising, and equipment maintenance.
There were 16 new members brought on board, whose addition helped bolstered the high angle and swiftwater teams.
“The capabilities of the medical team were significantly enhanced through training on advanced protocols and the addition of key personnel,” the release says.
COSAR is B.C.’s fourth busiest rescue team – only Squamish, North Shore and Whistler get more calls, according to the release.
“COSAR is heavily dependent upon the financial support of the community as only 40% of our funding for operational costs is provided by the government,” COSAR President Brad Trites said in the release.
“As such we are extremely grateful to organizations such as the Stober Foundation, TJ and Steph Real Estate Group, Central Okanagan Foundation, Beecroft Fuel Distribution, Mega Storage, Mr. Lube and numerous individuals within the community who helped us cover our financial needs. Every dollar we receive through donations truly helps us save lives.”
Image Credit: SUBMITTED/COSAR
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