Ground Search

Ground search includes but is not limited to locating, accessing, stabilizing and transporting patients. Rocky SAR locates patients through specialized ground search techniques, access with ropes and other specialized equipment, stabilize with first aid techniques and transport by a variety of methods and vehicles. 

Check out the drop downs below for more information. 

August 2024 | Rocky Search and Rescue (SAR) participated in an extensive, multi-day search operation in the Cline River area. This operation involved a coordinated effort over several days to locate a missing individual. Our team utilized specialized search techniques, including aerial surveillance and ground searches, to ensure a thorough and effective response. The operation required the dedication and expertise of our volunteers, who worked tirelessly, highlighting our commitment to providing search andrescue services in critical situations. 

Thank all of the teams who provided assistance on the search for the overdue hiker in addition to our mutual aid partners, including Central Zone SAR, Foothills SAR, Sundre SAR, Mountain View SAR, Red Deer County SAR, the local RCMP detachment and Conservation Officers, as well as Ahlstrom Air.

Agencies having a debrief before search operations.Ahlstrom Air FZWK assisting in the search efforts.

Rocky SAR members commit considerable time to training, this includes learning new skills and maintaining competency for the basics. 

Below are photos from ground rescue training (please note no actual patients are photographed, these photos were taken during an exercise):


Below are photos from patient packaging (please note no actual patients are photographed, these photos were taken during an exercise):

All Rocky SAR members participate in Search and Rescue Basic Training, this training has a classroom and practical component. It is a great way to orientate and learn about what it takes to be a Rocky SAR member. Below are a few photos from the practical component of SAR Basics:

Rocky SAR responds to avalanche accidents within Clearwater County. The members of the Mountain Rescue Team regularly train in snow safety, avalanche companion rescue skill and avalanche scenarios. All Rocky SAR team members are encouraged to complete basic avalanche rescue and snow safety skills and Mountain Rescue Team Members are expected to complete AST II training as soon as possible and pursue professional avalanche training. We are backed up on avalanche incident response by the professional rescuers from Kananaskis Mountain Rescue/ Alberta Parks.
 

What is a wheel litter, and why does Rocky SAR use this piece of equipment? A wheel litter is a single wheel design movable stretcher that makes it ideal for narrow trails, allowing agility, versatility and ease of movement even in the roughest terrain. The litter is fitted with a ATV wheel that offers tracking ability and shock absorption for smooth and comfortable patient transport. Below are a few photos of Rocky SAR putting the wheel litter to use:

In 2022, Rocky SAR organized and hosted a mock search, the exercise was a great success. Rocky SAR shares a big thank you to: 

  •  all of the land owners for their support and the opportunity to use their properties,
  • the mock victims who laid out in the fields, 
  • make up artists for donating your time, 
  • DC Wild Image Photography for capturing the day, and
  • Civil Air Search and Rescue Association (CASARA) for the plane props and helping out as well as all the teams who traveled to us to participate. 

Below are a few photos from the exercise, please note these photos were all apart of a mock emergency simulation:



Below are some photos of Rocky SAR assisting CASARA and 435 Squadron of Winnipeg, please note these photos were all apart of a mock emergency simulation: