Comox Valley Ground Search and Rescue is a volunteer-based organization that’s been operating for over 50 years, providing emergency rescue services across a large area: from Oyster River in the north to Cook Creek in the south, Buttle Lake in the west to the Georgia Strait in the east, including Denman and Hornby Islands. Their 60+ volunteer members are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, ready to respond when someone needs help in the backcountry or wilderness.

The team provides multiple specialized rescue capabilities: ground search and rescue, rope rescue, swift water and water rescue, avalanche rescue, light urban search and rescue, tracking, K-9 rescue, and first aid services. In 2024 alone, they responded to 73 tasks and contributed over 15,000 collective volunteer hours to rescue operations, educational programs, and community events. They also collaborate with other provincial SAR groups for mutual aid when needed.

If you’re interested in joining as a volunteer member, they have a “Becoming a Member” page on their website with information about training and requirements. The organization relies on donations and fundraising to operate—they accept financial donations, car donations, and host fundraising events like the Ritual MTB Film Tour. In an emergency, always call 911 first; they’ll dispatch SAR if needed. For non-emergency inquiries, reach them at [email protected].