Search and rescue experts from across Canada, the
US and Europe converged on Kingston, Ont., for SARSCENE 2003, a four-day
national symposium on the latest techniques and technology of ground, air and
marine search and rescue.
In addition to professional development seminars led by more than 100 leading
experts from Canada and abroad, the event opened with the annual Search and
Rescue Games and Canine Competition, which pit teams from across Canada and
around the world in simulated search and rescue exercises.
The event also included a series of professional development seminars and public
demonstrations of the latest search and rescue techniques and equipment.
SARSCENE was held from Oct. 15 to 18 and concluded with the presentation of the
2003 Award and Certificates for Outstanding Achievement in Search and Rescue.
“SARSCENE 2003 is the opportunity for experts from across Canada to meet, learn
and demonstrate the latest search and rescue techniques and technology,” said
Jean Murray, Executive Director of the National Search and Rescue Secretariat.
“It is also an important opportunity for professionals and volunteers alike to
build on the teamwork that is the essence of our network of search and rescue
services in Canada.”
The theme for SARSCENE 2003 is “Working Together to Save Lives.” This is
reflected in many of the presentations and demonstrations. Experts addressed
topics such as:
Alzheimer Wandering Prevention and the Wandering Registry
The New Search and Rescue Initiatives Fund
Urban, Ground, Air and Marine Search and Rescue
Ice Safety
Canine Tracking
YouthSafe Outdoors Safety for Youth
Wilderness, Cold Water and Arctic Survival
Generating Volunteer and Community Support
Other highlights of the event included the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP)
Tactical Unit, in conjunction with Kingston Police Services, rappel down the
side of the Ambassador Hotel, demonstrating high-angle rope rescue techniques.
A series of public demonstrations were also planned at Portsmouth Olympic
Harbour, including a first-ever public display of equipment and demonstration by
the Toronto Fire Service Heavy Urban Search and Rescue unit, and air and marine
rescue demonstrations by Canadian Forces’ 424 Squadron Hercules and Labrador
aircraft, the OPP Marine Unit and the Canadian Coast Guard Cutter, Bittern.
The National Search and Rescue Secretariat is an independent agency of the
federal government. Created in 1987, the NSS works with all levels of
government, police and emergency services to manage and improve search and
rescue activities throughout Canada.