Search and Rescue (SAR)

The primary goal of the Search and Rescue Program in the Pacific Region is to save lives at risk in the maritime environment. The Canadian Coast Guard-Pacific is responsible for providing the maritime resources in support of Search and Rescue (SAR) in areas of federal responsibility, which include 560,000 sq. km of ocean and 27,000 km of rugged coastline.

The SAR Program has four important elements: management and monitoring; operations; prevention; and volunteers.

Management and monitoring ensures that the SAR Program operates at optimal efficiency. SAR coverage requirements are adjusted to meet changing needs.

Operations ensure that CG SAR units are capable of responding to maritime SAR emergencies. This response requires skilled, full-time, trained professional crews using specialized vessels and equipment.

Volunteers of the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary are a key element in maximizing the efficiency of SAR operations, prevention and safety-related activities.

The mission of the Canadian Coast Guard Search and Rescue (SAR) Program is: To SAVE AND PROTECT lives in the maritime environment.

TO FULFILL OUR MISSION, OUR OBJECTIVES ARE TO:

• Save 100% of lives at risk
• Reduce the number and severity of SAR incidents.
• Minimize loss of life, injury, property damage and risk to the environment.
• Support and involve the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary.
• Maintain the highest professional standards.
• Provide national leadership and effective SAR Program management.
• Provide international SAR leadership.
• Maximize SAR system efficiency through innovation.
• Promote volunteerism.
• Increase awareness of the SAR Program.
• Assist in the development of the National SAR Program.
• Foster co-operative SAR agreements.
• Provide humanitarian aid and civil assistance where possible.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF SAR PACIFIC BRANCH:

• Implement CCG SAR policy
• Develop regional plans to ensure that CCG SAR levels of service, performance and operating standards are met.
• Ensure the continuing effectiveness of the CCG component of the maritime SAR system within the Victoria SRR.
• Provide qualified maritime SAR co-ordinators at the JRCC.
• Provide SAR training.
• Ensure optimum deployment of CCG SAR units.

Regional Superintendent Marine Search & Rescue
Canadian Coast Guard
25 Huron Street
Victoria BC, V8V 4V9

Telephone: 250-480-2621
Fax Number: 250-413-2833