New recruits with the Alberni Valley Rescue Squad joined veteran volunteers on Oct. 30, 2024 to learn about hypothermia.
The AVRS devoted the training evening to treating hypothermia. That's a condition when a person's core body temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius) because it is losing heat faster than it can create it.
"Our team of MITs and GSAR members practiced their medical skills, patient packaging and stretcher carries; emphasizing teamwork and communication," an AVRS volunteer noted.
"Every drill brings us closer to being ready for any situation."
The rescue squad is completely volunteer and operates under Emergency Management B.C. Searchers are called out by RCMP or other law enforcement whenever a report comes in of someone needing assistance. There is no charge for the rescue squad's services.
"The British Columbia Search and Rescue Association believes the fear of being charged for search and rescue could delay calls for help, impacting mission success," the BCSARA posted recently. "There is no charge for rescue regardless of the reason subjects have found themselves requiring assistance."
