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The seasons are changing: CVSAR
Although March 20 was the first day of spring, it is still winter in the mountains. This is the time of year that Columbia Valley Search and Rescue (CVSAR) must be ready for any type of incident.
Typical winter calls for assistance often involve lost or injured skiers and snowmobilers. In February, the CVSAR mountain rescue team was dispatched to assist an injured snowmobiler north of Paradise Basin. The individual was located, stabilized, and transported by helicopter to the Invermere hospital. The CVSAR response team included four, Level-2 avalanche technicians; two of which are members of the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides.
This rescue call is a reminder that it is still winter in the backcountry. A sudden change in weather, equipment failure or nightfall can turn a backcountry trip into a crisis. If venturing out, be prepared by following Adventure Smart’s “Three Ts”: Trip-planning, Training and Take-the- Essentials. Visit www.adventuresmart.ca for information and to download their Trip Plan app. If emergency assistance is required, call 911.
In 2022, to support our rescue response capability, Columbia Valley Search and Rescue is raising funds to replace aging equipment. Specifically, CVSAR needs two replacement 4×4 trucks and an all-terrain vehicle.
CVSAR is graciously seeking donations towards this needed equipment. These donations will also help CVSAR apply for grants that require the organization to have 50% of the equipment costs.
Donations are accepted online at https://columbiavalleysar.ca/. From the website select, Donate Online. Donations may also be sent to Box 2123, Invermere or by e-transfer to [email protected]. Tax receipts will be issued for all donations.
About Columbia Valley Search and Rescue
CVSAR is our local mountain search and rescue team dedicated to saving lives through search, rescue, emergency disaster response, and mountain safety education.
CVSAR is tasked through requests from the RCMP, the BC Ambulance Service, local fire departments or the BC coroner service. CVSAR is used when specialized skills are required when accessibility into the backcountry is limited. CVSAR responds to 20-40 calls annually.
The CVSAR team is 100% volunteer and available to help in search and rescue situations anywhere in the Columbia Valley.
CVSAR
