Arrowsmith Search and Rescue have formalized a new partnership with Mosiac Forests Management to share data and staff resources to make search and rescue operations on the central Island more efficient. (Arrowsmith SAR)

By Alex Rawnsley

rapid response

New land & data sharing agreement to allow for safer search and rescue response

Nov 27, 2021 | 5:28 AM

QUALICUM BEACH — Knowledge is power and local SAR crews just got an added boost.

Arrowsmith Search and Rescue, which covers a large area from Lantzville to north of Qualicum, has teamed with Mosiac Forest Management in sharing data, land and staff resources to better aid in SAR operations.

Nick Rivers, Arrowsmith’s vice president, told NanaimoNewsNOW the data Mosiac can provide their crews will get rescuers in a position to help people sooner.

“It’s a lot of information which is huge for us when we’re on different search and or rescue calls, knowing where new roads are, maybe where some active logging is, where we need to stay out of, identifying hazards.”

In return, Arrowsmith SAR will help Mosiac identify any hazards or issues on their lands.

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Rivers said it’s common for rescuers to ping a cell phone location of someone in need, but the spot on the map is not near any known roads or access.

In most cases, the freshly created road hasn’t been translated onto available maps.

Mosiac will also provide details on gates and various points of access to make operations by Arrowsmith SAR more efficient, in addition to some of their own assistance.

“When we’re working on their lands whether on a search or on a rescue, they’re going to divert some of their resources to assist, bring in staff and assist in the effort which is an incredible step up for us,” Rivers said.

It’s the latest advancement for Arrowsmith Search and Rescue following the official launch of their new operations and training centre in October.

The expansive $1.2 million facility serves as the central response point for their operations and permanent home for their vehicles.

The group, along with several Island-based SAR teams also use the facility for meetings and training sessions.

Arrowsmith Search and Rescue border Comox Valley Search and Rescue to the north in Deep Bay, Nanaimo Search and Rescue to the south by Lantzville and Alberni Valley Rescue Squad at Cathederal Grove.

In operation over the last 50+ years, the volunteer-operated organization responded to over 60 incidents in 2020 including a rapid water rescue in Little Qualicum Falls which became the subject of a British TV documentary.

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alex@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @alexrawnsley