It was a year with a wide range for the Prince George Search and Rescue.
That is according to Lauren Phillips, a Search and Rescue Team Leader, who said the service responded to 36 calls this year – which is about average.
“We did a number of rescures, recoveries, lots of searches, and [wildfire] evacuations,” she said, adding helping with evacuations may become more normal as wildfire seasons worsen. “We were helping resource workers, stuck motorists, hikers, fishers, a variety of situations.”
In wintertime, with temperatures lower and daylight hours fewer, Phillips said they encourage people adventuring outdoors to be as prepared as possible.
“Ask yourself, what would you do if you had a breakdown, broken leg, or got lost. Would you be able to comfortably spend the night, in terms of your skillset, equipment, and mindset?” she said. “Nobody we end up helping ever thought they were going to have an issue that day.”
Especially in winter, Phillips recommended people in need just call instead of waiting until a situation gets worse, or a loved one who is expected home at a certain time is extremely late.
“Call 9-1-1. We are happy to deploy, we are volunteers that are stoked about helping the community,” she explained.
Phillips also wanted to remind the community that Search and Rescue is free in BC, and anyone who may be lost or injured should not be worried about being dinged with a bill.
Something going on in the Prince George area you think people should know about?
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