Central Cariboo Search and Rescue - CCSAR

Central Cariboo Search and Rescue - CCSAR The AutoEx team responds regionally to Motor Vehicle Incidents, for subject extraction. What does the Land Search and Rescue team do? Are CCSAR volunteers paid?

Volunteers of the Williams Lake area proudly serving as a function of the Cariboo Regional District, responding in tandem with BCSARA, RCMP, BC Coroners Service, and BCEHS to support our region and communities throughout BC. Volunteers from the Williams Lake, BC area provide assistance to the RCMP, Coroner and BC Ambulance services with:

* assisting motor vehicle accident victims
* searching for

missing persons
* locating missing aircraft
* assisting at disaster scenes such as: fires, floods and landslides
* helping agencies who provide emergency support for disaster victims

Volunteers spend a great deal of time training in order to ensure that a search and rescue task is completed successfully. Our members have training in:

auto extrication
embankment rescue
outdoor survival
map & compass
search techniques
search management
team leadership
radio communication
tracking
basic first aid
emergency preparedness
swift & flat water rescue


If you would like to become a member of the Central Cariboo Search & Rescue team you should be:

* 19 years of age or 16 years of age for Junior members
* enthusiastic
* able to work as a team member
* willing to become an active member in one of our specialty areas

We're currently recruiting for all positions, including; Land Search and Rescue, Auto Extrication, Communications and general Hall Maintenance volunteers to join our team. If you're interested in applying to be a member please either; email [email protected], visit https://www.cariboord.ca/en/emergency-and-protective-services/search-and-rescue.aspx to apply online, or pick up the application package at:

For more information or comments send an email to [email protected].
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FAQ's:

What does the Auto Extrication team do? This team utilizes training such as; motor vehicle safety, rope rescue, emergency vehicle driving and tool usage (including the infamous 'Jaws of Life"). The LandSAR team responds to calls for help regionally, and provincially. Our LandSAR team is apart of the BC Search and Rescue Association and utilizes training such as; ground searching, UTV and ATVs, snowmobiles, tracking, rope rescue, flat ice rescue, swift water rescue, helicopters, and more. No, CCSAR members are UNPAID volunteers. In saying that, gear and training are paid for by the organization. If I want to be a volunteer do I have to be a member of both the Auto Extrication AND Land Search and Rescue? No, you do not have to join all teams. We at CCSAR understand that some people may only be interested in doing only Communications, or Hall Maintenance, or Land SAR, or Auto Ex, we are happy with that. What is the time commitment to be a volunteer? We ask our members to be dedicated and give as much time as they can, while still keeping in mind the balance of life and volunteering. This means communicating with the Training Officers when you can attend practices, being on call when available, and being committed to keeping up your skills and certifications. We promise the time you give is well worth it.

This week, CCSAR members dedicated our training to sharpening our CPR skills, focusing on chest compressions and rescue ...
08/06/2026

This week, CCSAR members dedicated our training to sharpening our CPR skills, focusing on chest compressions and rescue breathing. We discussed the vital importance of practicing within our training scope and becoming familiar with the medical supplies in our bags. In high-pressure situations, knowing where to find items that are needed is crucial.

We train hard so we’re ready when we are tasked out.

✨Meet the Member ✨Teresa ▪️Can you tell us who you are outside of Search and Rescue. Outside of search and rescue I am a...
08/03/2026

✨Meet the Member ✨
Teresa

▪️Can you tell us who you are outside of Search and Rescue.

Outside of search and rescue I am an exercise therapist and chef. I spend my time outside exploring with my dog which includes lots of camping anytime of the year. If I am not outside you’ll find me in the kitchen.

▪️How long have you been a member, and what certifications do you currently hold?

I have been a member for almost a year! I have my GSAR certificate as well as AST 1.

▪️What intrigued you to join CCSAR ?

I was intrigued to join CCSAR because I wanted to meet and join a community of like-minded people while also being outdoors 🙂

Fun Question 👇🏼

If you had to pick a theme song to play every time you entered a room, what would it be?

2 u by WHIPPED CREAM 💃

https://youtu.be/t4kJ7c9sq68?si=_OrVQLWJ3haf6QIq

CCSAR members assisted South Cariboo Search & Rescue and other agencies with the evacuations of Green Lake area today. O...
08/01/2026

CCSAR members assisted South Cariboo Search & Rescue and other agencies with the evacuations of Green Lake area today. Our members have returned home safely.

Also, We would like to report that there was only ONE resident that refused to leave today 😳🐻 He was quite happy taking over someone else’s yard, hopefully just temporarily🤣😅

✨A friendly message from Central Cariboo Search and Rescue. ✨As we approach another long weekend this summer, the CCsar ...
07/30/2026

✨A friendly message from Central Cariboo Search and Rescue. ✨
As we approach another long weekend this summer, the CCsar team would like to remind you that we are on call 24/7, no matter the weather. Whether it’s raining, hot, smoky, or clear, we are ready.

Before you head out on your adventures, please take a moment to visit the link below for BC AdventureSmart. Creating a trip plan is essential, and it's important to stick to it. If your plans change, make sure to inform someone.

With only a few long weekends left this summer, here are some important reminders to ensure a safe experience:

Know Your Limits! Understand your physical capabilities and don’t push beyond what you can handle.

Keep some sort of communication! There are plenty of ways to stay connected while out of service. Just a few examples are; satellite texting, zoleo, spot, in reach etc, plan a check in time and stick to it.

Take Breaks! Allow yourself time to rest and recharge during your adventures.

Stay Hydrated! Bring plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated throughout the day.

Use Sunscreen, wear a hat!!
Protect your skin from UV rays, even if the skies are cloudy.

Heat exhaustion, Heat stroke and dehydration are extremely dangerous, be aware of the signs. Seek help immediately if you suspect you or someone you are with are experiencing the symptoms.

Let’s prioritize safety while enjoying the beauty of the outdoors. Have a great long weekend, and remember—we’re always here if you need assistance.

Plan your adventure with BC AdventureSmart here

https://www.adventuresmart.ca/

📸Pictures for attention📸

Such an incredible man, gone too soon. All the CCSAR members thoughts are with Mike’s family and all the Search and Resc...
07/27/2026

Such an incredible man, gone too soon. All the CCSAR members thoughts are with Mike’s family and all the Search and Rescue members that knew and worked along side him.
Rest easy.

It is with great sadness that Kamloops Search and Rescue acknowledges the passing of Mike Coyle of Coquitlam Search and Rescue.

Mike dedicated many years to serving his community and the search and rescue family throughout British Columbia. His commitment, leadership, and willingness to help others left a lasting impact that reached far beyond his own team.

Mike worked closely with Kamloops Search and Rescue in the development and advancement of SAR drone operations, helping shape a capability that has become an invaluable tool in search and rescue across the province. His passion for innovation, his generosity in sharing knowledge, and his collaborative spirit helped many teams, including ours, grow and better serve those in need.

Mike was also the driving force behind the Silver Alert initiative, a specialized community alert system designed to help locate missing vulnerable adults, including those living with dementia or Alzheimer's disease.

Although Mike served with Coquitlam Search and Rescue, his loss is felt throughout the entire SAR community.

On behalf of everyone at Kamloops Search and Rescue, we extend our deepest condolences to Mike's family, friends, and all of our colleagues at Coquitlam Search and Rescue. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

Rest easy, Mike. Thank you for your friendship, your leadership, your innovation, and your unwavering dedication to helping others. Your legacy will continue to guide and inspire the search and rescue community for many years to come. (AH/DG)

✨MEET THE MEMBER MONDAY✨                               ✨Stef✨▪️Can you tell us who you are outside of Search and Rescue....
07/06/2026

✨MEET THE MEMBER MONDAY✨
✨Stef✨

▪️Can you tell us who you are outside of Search and Rescue.

First and foremost, I’m Taylor and Rhylee’s mom. My oldest son joined SAR before he headed off to university that was an incredible bonding experience, I’m so grateful for it.
I love to camp, fish, hike, hunt, go quadding and be on the lake in my kayak. Im always up to participate in the Foam Fest Race with my friends or with my kids. I am a punk rocker at heart 🤘🖤Aslo, Im obsessed with all things scary,spooky, haunted houses,darkness and magic👻

▪️How long have you been a member, and what certifications do you currently hold?

I have been member since 2023. Currently I am the Training Officer. I hold a ROPE TECH 1 certificate, Swiftwater TECH 3, GROUND SEARCH AND RESCUE Train the Trainer, Public Safety Lifeline Course certificate, certified for Hover Exit. I have completed many trainings over the years and I plan to do more in the near future.

▪️What intrigued you to join CCSAR ?

Funny story- my boyfriend and I went out ice fishing around Easter time three years ago. We didn’t tell anybody we were leaving to head out there, we had no plan, no over night gear, very little food and some coffee/water. We did make plans with his mom, we planned be at her house for dinner, when we didn’t show up or call or text or answer any calls or text she and my kids began to worry it didn’t take long before she called SEARCH AND RESCUE.

Very long story short, we did end up self- rescuing. Later that day after we got home, I did hear about how CCSAR was preparing to come out and search for us, the planning that went into getting a sled team and a helicopter ready to leave at first light, I really wanted to meet these people who were dropping everything on a Sunday night to come find us.
That made me want to become a volunteer to help other people and be involved like they were for us.

Shortly after( less than a week) I was up at Mount Timothy Ski hill and CCSAR just happened to have Recruitment Drive set up for the day. I filled out the application and I have been a member ever since. 🫶

Fun Question 👇🏼

If you could leave today to travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Scotland. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 The Castles, the magic, the witches, the Highland Cows and of course National Animal —— A Unicorn 🦄.
🥹

Please join the Central Cariboo Search and Rescue team in giving a massive shoutout to Kevin, Hannah, and Teresa! They h...
06/30/2026

Please join the Central Cariboo Search and Rescue team in giving a massive shoutout to Kevin, Hannah, and Teresa! They have committed over 90 hours into training, studying, written exams, fieldwork, and an intense final evaluation. Their commitment and perseverance have truly paid off!

Having successfully completed the GSAR program, they are now ready to respond to calls and explore new specialty training.

Our team is growing and expanding our training so much in so many ways, this is just one more achievement the team is celebrating this month!! 💪🏼❤️

It's been an incredibly busy few weeks here at  CCSAR, and we couldn't be more proud of our team's hard work and dedicat...
06/24/2026

It's been an incredibly busy few weeks here at CCSAR, and we couldn't be more proud of our team's hard work and dedication!
We successfully completed 2 day long training, ATV/UTV course that was both challenging and fun.
Our members also got hands-on experience with basic first aid practice, focusing on stretcher packaging and wound care—essential skills that will serve us well in the field. We practiced radio etiquette. Radio Communication is another skill that is valuable on a task, knowing how to clearly communicate with Command is essential for our success.
As a team, we've set ambitious new goals and come up with a clear plan to achieve them. Together, we’re committed to pushing our limits and growing stronger!

We train hard so when the call comes in we are ready and prepared for any task.

CCSAR’s  practice this week we focused on sharpening our searching skills, team building and first aid, it was a  succes...
04/23/2026

CCSAR’s practice this week we focused on sharpening our searching skills, team building and first aid, it was a successful training night! Before leaving the hall we loaded or mapping and navigation app and prepared to track our progress in the field.

After establishing who’s in each leadership position and identified our first aid attendant, we split into two teams.

Together, we provided first aid and secured Ruth Lee, our training subject mannequin, to the stretcher and packed her out of the woods, showcasing our teamwork and dedication in action.

It was an incredible experience that reinforced our skills and collaboration! We train hard, so when the call comes in we are ready to respond for our community.

To learn more about SAR you can;
🚨Take a look at our page info for our FAQ'S
🚨send us a DM 🗳
🚨email [email protected] 📧
🚨visit https://www.cariboord.ca/en/emergency-and-protective-services/search-and-rescue.aspx to apply online

Address

180-D North Third Avenue
Williams Lake, BC
V2G2A4

Website

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