The RCMP with jurisdictional authority is responsible for all Search and Rescue (SAR) activity within their catchment area(s). SAR Teams are the operational resource activated in these situations. They also actively participate within their communities, responding to emergency and disaster situations when requested. SAR Team members must individually provide and maintain the ability and equipment necessary to respond and sustain independent SAR operations under all conditions for a minimum of twenty-four hours.

SAR activities might include:

• Ground Search & Rescue, including wilderness survival, mapping, compass & GPS Tracking
• Communications, VHF, UHF, Sat/Cel, amateur and commercial band.
• High Angle and Embankment Rope Rescue
• Avalanche Awareness and Rescue
• Swift Water Rescue
• Helicopter (Hover Entry/Exit)
• Emergency Medical Assistants (EMA), First Responder and EMA II - Paramedic.
• Search & Rescue Management
• Basic and Advanced Incident Management
• Mountain Rescue,
• Police Evidence Search and support
• BC Coroners Service recovery, and
• Equipment maintenance

From time to time when emergencies and disasters require evacuation of residents from their homes and businesses, SAR teams may be utilized for this important task.

Within the boundaries of the Regional District there are 4 Search and Rescue teams: Keremeos, Oliver/Osoyoos, Penticton and Princeton.

These 4 separate teams combine their efforts to provide mutual aid service throughout the region. The 4 teams meet regularly as the South Okanagan Similkameen SAR Committee to discuss training, funding, response issues etc.

Keremeos Search & Rescue

Oliver - Osoyoos Search & Rescue

Penticton Search & Rescue

Princeton Search & Rescue