Columbia Valley Search and Rescue (CVSAR)

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Invermere, BC
Columbia Valley Search and Rescue (CVSAR)

Ground Search, Swift Water and Mountain Rescue in the Invermere Area.

Our direct service area covers nearly 10,000+ square kilometers of mountainous terrain, swift water and lake areas.

03/24/2026

On the evening of March 23rd, CVSAR was requested to assist stranded motorists on Westside road, west of Brisco.
A team from responded, located the subjects and assisted them back to safety.
This is the fifth stranded motorists call out for CVSAR this winter. Remember very few backcountry roads are plowed in winter and conditions are usually far from good. As we enter spring melt-freeze thaw cycles, road conditions can also change dramatically over the course of a single day. We do not recommend travelling questionable backcountry roads unless you are very prepared.

02/23/2026

On February 17, CVSAR was called out to assist a lost skier near Panorama Mountain Resort. Working closely with Panorama Ski Patrol, members helped ensure the skier’s safe return before nightfall.
We appreciate the continued support of our community, partners, and volunteers, whose commitment makes every response possible. Stay safe out there!
📷: Stock photo from training Feb 2025. Not current conditions.

01/24/2026

Columbia Valley Search and Rescue responded to two callouts this week.

The first was for stranded motorists in the backcountry. Late on January 18, CVSAR was tasked to assist with motorists stuck in an unploughed backcountry area. With daylight fading, a helicopter was used to evacuate the uninjured subjects.

Remember that many backcountry roads are unploughed at this time of year and are impassible. Be sure to research your route thoroughly and carry food, water and warm clothing in case of emergency.
 The second call came late Wednesday afternoon for an ice climber in medical distress. CVSAR responded with assistance from .

Stay safe and take care.

01/19/2026

We’re recruiting! Join us at our Open House to learn more!

When: Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 4:00 pm
Where: Columbia Valley Search and Rescue hall (1627
BC-93 #95, Windermere, BC. Located between the Windermere Fire station and the Go Carts.)
What: learn more about what we do, the training requirements and the time commitment.

Email [email protected] for an application.
Applications close January 31, 2026.

01/10/2026

Thinking about joining Columbia Valley Search and Rescue? Join us at our Open House to learn more!
When: Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 4:00 pm
Where: Columbia Valley Search and Rescue hall (1627 BC-93 #95, Windermere, BC. Located between the Windermere Fire station and the Go Carts.)
What: learn more about what we do, the training requirements and the time commitment.

Email [email protected] for an application. Applications close January 31, 2026.

01/09/2026

Columbia Valley Search and Rescue responded to two overnight calls this week.

The first involved a lost individual near Spillimacheen, followed by a call to assist a stranded backcountry motorist near Edgewater, the following night.

In both cases, the subjects were located safe and sound and provided assistance.

A huge thank you to the RCMP Police Dog Services and RCMP Drone unit for their assistance. As well as a massive thank you to the dedicated CVSAR volunteers who leave their beds in the middle of the night to help those in need.

12/29/2025

CVSAR would like to sincerely thank the many individuals and organizations who supported us throughout 2025. Your generosity helps us continue to serve our community when it matters most.

As the year comes to a close, there is still time to make a donation if you wish to receive a 2025 tax receipt. Donations can be made through CanadaHelps (https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/columbia-valley-disaster-services-society/), or by e-transfer. Please include your name and address and we will email your receipt.

Every contribution is truly appreciated. ❤️

12/22/2025

Columbia Valley Search and Rescue is now
taking applications for new members!
If you are interested in joining the team
and want to give back to your community,
email: [email protected] for an
application.
Applications close January 31, 2026.
Successful applicants will be notified by
February 28, with course work commencing
approximately late April.

10/11/2025

Columbia Valley Search and Rescue responded to an injured mountain biker in the Purcell Mountains, north of Toby Creek, earlier today.

A team of rescuers quickly located, assessed and stabilized the patient. The subject was then transported with the help of

Heading out on your next adventure? Be prepared for cold temperatures and changing conditions as winter approaches. ❄️

10/02/2025

Last night, CVSAR was requested by the RCMP to assist a solo hiker who had sustained injuries after a trip and fall. The hiker was unable to walk out on their own and required help navigating the trail in the dark. Thankfully, they did the right thing by calling for help.
A team from CVSAR responded and provided assistance, safely escorting the individual to higher medical care.
A Seasonal Reminder:
While it may still feel like fall in the valley, conditions in the mountains are quickly shifting to winter— with colder temperatures, shorter days, and more challenging travel.
If you’re heading into the backcountry this time of year, make sure you’re prepared:
🌨️ Check Weather Conditions: Mountain weather changes rapidly. Always check the forecast and be ready for cold, wet, or windy conditions. 🧥 Layer Up: Temperatures can vary greatly in autumn. Bring layers to stay warm and dry. If possible bring bright coloured clothing to be visible in case of rescue. 🔦 Prepare for the Unexpected: Be prepared to spend the night. With limited daylight, search and rescue may not be able to get to you before nightfall. This time of year it’s important to plan for the worst case and be prepared for it. Always carry a headlight in case you are caught out in the dark.

09/29/2025

September Call-Out Recap

Sept 5 – Mutual Aid: Our team supported Kimberley SAR in a search and recovery operation at Meachen Creek Falls.

Sept 23 – Ongoing Search: We responded to a mutual aid request to assist Southern Alberta SAR and other BC teams in the search for a missing 6-year-old in Crowsnest Pass. Our support is ongoing.

Sept 24 – Hiker Rescue: CVSAR was tasked to assist a hiker with a lower leg injury. A team responded and successfully evacuated the subject with the support of

Thank you to all the dedicated volunteers who answered the call this month.

Address

1627 Highway 93/95
Invermere, BC
V0B2L2

Telephone

+12503420600

Website

https://columbiavalleysar.ca/

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