Nanaimo SAR members pose in front of the organization's Fourth St. headquarters (Nanaimo SAR)

By Ian Holmes

Nanaimo SAR 2025

Nanaimo SAR reflects on busy year with increased call volumes

Jan 11, 2026 | 5:19 AM

NANAIMO — In a vastly growing region with countless backcountry adventures at our doorstep, it’s no surprise Nanaimo Search and Rescue is so heavily relied on.

Among the highest call volumes in the organization’s history was recorded in 2025, with 60 tasks attended by the organization’s 60 dedicated volunteers.

Nanaimo SAR vice president Erin O’Brien said last year offered up their usual varied range of tasks, from backcountry distress rescues to urban searches.

“2025 was a busy year, our members put in about 16,000 hours between training and tasks — pretty busy.”

Last year offered up what’s believed to be first of its kind response for search and rescue organizations on Vancouver Island: wildfire evacuations.

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O’Brien said their organization assisted in evacuation operations of those impacted by the Wesley Ridge wildfire, which raced down a hillside and surrounded homes in the Meadowood subdivision northwest of Qualicum Beach.

In addition, Nanaimo SAR members also flew to fire-ravaged rural Manitoba to assist with emergency centre operations due to unprecedented forest fires impacting the prairies.

O’Brien said their organization spent nearly 4,000 hours on search and rescue tasks.

“It’s always a mix of people recreating, and more people recreating, that’s exactly what we want,” O’Brien told NanaimoNewsNOW, who emphasized the value of education.

“Accidents happen,” she said, as O’Brien expanded on the value of having people as prepared as possible while adventuring outdoors.

Community outreach presentations to a range of community organizations.

O’Brien said having a disclosed trip plan and having the proper supplies are essential.

“Always tell someone where they’re going, making sure you’re taking your essentials, making sure your cellphone’s charged up, taking a headlamp, those kinds of things.”

O’Brien said hikers can get into trouble this year due to inclement weather and short days.

Additional information regarding Nanaimo SAR, including donating to the valued non-profit, can be made here.

Outdoor enthusiasts are advised to reference AdventureSmart to be make sure they’re properly prepared for a range of excursions.

SAR Top 10 trip essentials

• Fire starter (matches, lighter)
• Flashlight/headlamp
• Extra food and water
• Extra clothes
• Pocket knife
• Shelter (tarp)
• First aid kit
• Compass or GPS device
• Cell phone (fully charged)
• Whistle or signal device

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