Department of Community Services

Search and Rescue Training

Search and Rescue Volunteers require training that qualifies them to work efficiently and safely. As with many emergency response organizations, search and rescue also requires a "command structure" that maximizes the use of appropriately trained volunteers. There are four levels of volunteer "certification" recognized in the Yukon.

1. SAR Volunteer

This is the entry or "trainee" level. Candidates have completed the application for membership, undergone a criminal records check by the RCMP, and have been accepted by the SAR Society.

2. SAR Team Member

Volunteers at this level are effective team players in various types of searches. They may be expected to supervise two to four walk-in volunteers under normal conditions. A SAR Team Member who has appropriate skills may also be called upon to function in the support, communications or finance sections at Search Headquarters.

3. SAR Team Leader

Volunteers provide safe and effective leadership for larger teams of walk-in volunteers and qualified SAR Team Members. The members of their SAR Society recognize candidates as potential leaders. They will be expected to lead teams on all of the basic search types.

4. Search Manager

This level is required for any Member who will function as a Search Manager, Plans Chief, or Operations Chief in an official search by RCMP.

In order to qualify for certification at any of these levels, volunteers must meet the following:

SAR Volunteer

  • Accepted into the SAR Society
  • Suitably fit to perform the required search tasks in the Yukon Territory
  • Be of good standing in the community and able to work well with the Society

    • SAR Team Member

  • Registered SAR Volunteer
  • Completed the Yukon Basic Search and Rescue Course (personal instruction manual)
  • Current First Aid Certificate from a recognized provider

    • SAR Team Leader

  • Active, certified SAR Team Member for at least one year
  • Passed the Yukon SAR Team Leader course
  • Valid basic first aid certificate from any recognized provider (advanced or wilderness level is strongly encouraged)

    • Search Manager

  • Active, certified SAR Team Member for at least two years
  • Take and pass the Yukon Search Management Course