British Columbia Search and Rescue Association

Purpose

The project being proposed by the British Columbia Search and Rescue Association (BCSARA) will react to feedback and engagement with First Nations communities in B.C that suggests a need for Search and Rescue (SAR) prevention programs and materials to be more inclusive and culturally appropriate. The concept of a NIF project to consult with Indigenous organizations and communities on SAR prevention materials and activities was brought forward to the BCSARA board several years ago, at that time another priority was chosen. Several recent events and changes present an opportunity to move such a project ahead, these include: -Establishment of the First Nations Coordination Unit in Emergency Management British Columbia (EMBC), providing a link between the EMBC role in supporting SAR, including prevention, and Indigenous Nation to Nation conversations providing an opportunity to include SAR related discussion. -Regional Partnership Tables being developed through Indigenous Nation conversations providing an opportunity to include SAR related discussion. -Interest in corroborating in Adventure Smart programs being received from several indigenous organizations including the Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity and Recreation Council and the Aboriginal Youth Mountain Bike Association.