Tools for preparedness and prevention were recently added to the arsenal of Penticton and District Search and Rescue (PENSAR).
Instead of the traditional training methods using ropes, maps, survival and first aid, 14 members last weekend successfully completed the Adventure Smart facilitator training.
According to search and rescue manager Kelvin Hall those PENSAR volunteers can now go into the community to help people prevent and reduce the severity of emergencies.
Two of the four programs were aimed specifically at youth, the Hug-A-Tree and Survive and Snow Safety Education, which PENSAR members will be able to impart to groups including scouts, guides, cadets and schools as part of their outdoor safety program.
“Preventing mishaps in the outdoors or people getting lost in the woods is an important part of what search and rescue groups do in their communities,” said Hall in a written statement.
Hug-A-Tree teaches kids to not get lost in the forest or if they do what should be done and SNOW relates to a variety of topics relating to outdoor winter activities.
Survive Outside and Paddlesmart were the other programs.
According to Hall in 2015 PENSAR responded to 52 tasks involving 57 search days, nearly double the annual average and it’s hoped the proactive approach will make a difference in the future.
“AdventureSmart has an excellent website and tools for the outdoor enthusiast and with that a trip planning tool that can easily be filled out and mailed to friends and family,” said Hall. “If Search Teams can have access to the trip plan it increases our response time.”
Meanwhile, on Sunday PENSAR will be hosting its third annual Okanagan Similkameen search and rescue joint training event, SARnival 2016.
As many as 40 personnel are expected and past teams have included Central Okanagan, Keremeos, Oliver-Osoyoos, Vernon and Princeton.
Tracking, rope, first aid, patient carry, radio communications map and compass skills will be reviewed.
The day-long event is designed to increase networking and sharing of information, practicing skills, building teamwork and enthusiasm.
Activities will take place in the area around the Penticton Yacht Club.