Premier Christy Clark today announced $33,350 in funding to the Princeton Ground Search and Rescue Society as part of the Province’s $10-million in one-time funding commitments to the BC Search and Rescue Association (BCSARA) to help bolster training, administrative support and equipment renewals for these critical public safety lifeline volunteers.

The money received by Princeton Ground Search and Rescue Society will go toward training for technical search and rescue responses, personal protective equipment to ensure their members are safe, and other equipment that supports search and rescue operations.

The $10 million in BCSARA funding will take place over a two-year period, based on the proposed Alternative Support Model that was supported by its members. These funding allocations are given according to the needs of the local ground search and rescue teams to replace or update equipment, provide administrative support and pay for new or additional training.

This investment builds on the $6.3 million the B.C. government is already providing each year to cover ground search and rescue operational costs for deployment, as well as training and equipment costs, and the insurance and liability for the members of the 80 groups serving across the B.C. landscape.

Quotes:

Christy Clark, Premier of British Columbia –

"When a loved one goes missing, the men and women of search and rescue are a beacon of hope. This funding is an opportunity to support the Princeton Ground Search and Rescue Society and help ensure they have every opportunity to help those in need. On behalf of our government and all British Columbians, our thanks are not enough for your service - and for returning people home safe and sound."

Naomi Yamamoto, Minister of State for Emergency Preparedness –

“Search and rescue volunteers demonstrate a steadfast commitment to the safety of families and communities throughout this province. These are local heroes who provide vital aid and support for British Columbians in what can often be their worst moments. We will continue to support emergency responders and, in turn, the overall safety of British Columbians.”

Linda Larson, MLA for Boundary-Similkameen –

“We are thankful for the service that our province’s local search and rescue teams provide. Here in Boundary-Similkameen, the beauty of our landscape entices many locals and tourists alike into the wilderness. Although personal safety is everyone’s responsibility, it is comforting to know these dedicated volunteers are here to help.”

Jackie Tegart, MLA for Fraser-Nicola –

“We are fortunate within B.C. to have such a dedicated group of individuals who make serving the safety of others their passion. We are grateful for their commitment and, in turn, our government is strengthening our commitment to them with this one-time grant.”

Chris Kelly, president, BC Search and Rescue Association –

“BCSARA is pleased to disburse this funding to assist ground search and rescue groups in addressing their priorities, whether it be replacing critical equipment, gaining additional training, or completing infrastructure work to improve response and keep members safe. We thank the Province for this funding and continuing to work with us to assist the search and rescue community.”

Learn more:

BC Search and Rescue Association: www.bcsara.com

PreparedBC: http://www2.gov.bc.ca/preparedbc

Basic emergency kit supplies: http://ow.ly/4nrcp3

Household preparedness and neighbourhood preparedness guides: http://ow.ly/4nrcso

Emergency Info BC, B.C.’s official channel for emergency alerts: http://ow.ly/WCDbj

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