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Become a SAR Responder

Search and Rescue Alberta is dedicated to diverse and inclusive recruiting and retention. As a member of Search and Rescue Alberta you will become part of a professional, highly experienced and trained team. Individuals interested in joining a Search and Rescue Alberta team have the opportunity to work in both operational and non-operational/support roles.

Operational

The requirement to become a Search and Rescue Alberta Responder will vary from group to group. The basic criteria required for all SAR Responders is outlined here:

  • Applicants must be 18 year or older*
  • Applicants must have certification in Standard First Aid**
  • Applicants must be willing to undergo a Criminal Record Check including Vulnerable Sector Checks from your local law enforcement agency
  • Applicants must be prepared to make a minimum commitment of service to the team they are applying for

*Some teams do accept applicants under 18 years of age as long as their parent or legal guardian is a member and always remains onsite with the minor.

**Some teams may accept applicants who do not have a Standard First Aid certification, although it is required to be operational. Contact your local SAR team for more information about this requirement.

For more information on training as a Search and Rescue Alberta Operational Responder, please visit the Certification and Training page.

Non-Operational/Support

Non-operational or support roles play an important part in the work Search and Rescue Alberta does. The positions vary from team to team but can include holding a position on the Board of Directors or volunteering within a committee of interest. These non-operational positions generally do not require a current standard first aid certification.

Ready to join?

Civilians can become Responders for either an operational or non-operational/support roles through contacting and joining their local Search and Rescue Alberta team located throughout the province. To find the Search and Rescue Alberta member team closest to you please visit the Area of Operations map.

Benefits to becoming a Search and Rescue Alberta Volunteer

In addition to playing a key and rewarding role in keeping Albertans safe, Search and Rescue Alberta provides additional benefits to its members ranging from discounts on clothing and gear, to tax credits, access to various conferences and events and individual recognition via a variety of service awards.

ProDeals

ProDeals are available to Search and Rescue Alberta responders. These deals include discounted rates on clothing and gear. Visit the link below to view deals.

Recreation Outfitters Inc. – https://www.roirecreation.com/pro_purchase/

Tax Credit

The new SARVAC Tax Credit represents federal recognition of the important role search and rescue volunteers play in contributing to the security and safety of the citizens and visitors to our country. The tax credit is a welcome benefit to the GSAR Volunteers who commit their personal time, effort, and equipment to finding lost persons in their communities.