Arrowsmith Search and Rescue will be able to train for emergencies on the kind of land they tend to get called out to after signing a deal with Mosaic Forest Management for access to private lands on central Vancouver Island.
The agreement, expected to serve as a template for more deals between Mosaic and other regional rescue agencies, gives the search and rescue group access to land between Cook Creek and Lantzville.
“The ability to conduct crew training and practice scenarios in the areas where rescues will occur is invaluable,” said Arrowsmith Search and Rescue vice-president Nick Rivers.
Rivers said volunteers must undergo extensive training in skills including rope rescue, water safety, navigation, overnight survival, and wilderness first aid to be certified by Arrowsmith Search and Rescue.
Domenico Iannidinardo, Mosaic’s chief forester, said the deal will allow the organizations to leverage the resources and strengths of each group for the benefit of public safety.
Arrowsmith Search and Rescue operates out of Qualicum Beach and is staffed by volunteers who are on call 24 hours a day.
