Chilliwack Search and Rescue - October 26th

It's an interesting story about how we made a connection with Chilliwack Search and Rescue, but you'll have to ask Captain Don for the full details. The short version is that his family is thankful for all they do. Getting a chance for our whole unit to travel out to see their operation and find out what it takes to keep everything running smoothly was the bonus for us.

So, read on to find out more about how Search and Rescue teams work and also see if you can answer some of the questions. (Hint -> If you read to the end you will find the answers.) 

Question 2. What does HETS stand for?

 Question 1. How much do "Search and Rescue" team members earn each year?

Question 3. Is this the latest body piercing craze?

We visited them on an equipment preparation night, because everything has to be ready to go on a moments notice.

We split into small groups and got guided tours of all the special equipment and also what it takes to be prepared for emergencies.

"Buddy" the Golden Retriever is a 12 year veteran of Search and Rescue.

The answer to question #1 is that all the members of the Search and Rescue team are volunteers. All the training they do, all the nights and weekends they spend making sure the equipment and gear is ready to go, and any time they get called out to search for people who are lost or need to be rescued is all on their own time! They truly become like a family and have to trust each other and work together constantly.

The answer to question #2 is that HETS stands for "Helicopter External Transport System". Team members are strapped in and connected to a helicopter on the outside and then lifted up while the helicopter takes off. They use this to get rescue team members into situations where there are no other options. Hanging from the bottom of a helicopter and being flown through the trees and mountains, now that requires trust and teamwork. Who needs amusement park when you volunteer with Search and Rescue?


The answer to question #3 is that pin coming out of her toe is not body piercing. It is to help set a broken toe. One of the search and rescue team members had her foot up when we first walked in and as much as she wanted to tell us it was the result of some daring rescue, she said it was from something far less interesting. Oh well, it still makes a great photo.