Volunteer

BECOME A MEMBER

Being a member of RCM-SAR is one of the most rewarding volunteer roles there is. You will be part of a dedicated, professional team that is carrying on a proud 150-year tradition of volunteer lifeboats in British Columbia. By joining us, you will save lives.

Our volunteer program is designed to match your interests, skills, and availability. Positions range from active search and rescue crew to shore-based SAR prevention, maintenance, and fundraising roles.

SEARCH AND RESCUE CREW – Next Recruitment Intake Fall 2023

Being an active search and rescue crew member is an exciting, challenging and rewarding role but is not for everyone.

You will be paged in the middle of the night and respond to emergencies in weather and sea conditions that most mariners avoid. You will be called on to navigate in fog and darkness, operate a rescue vessel in wind and waves, safely handle tow lines and other gear, use your first aid skills, follow orders, and give orders.

But if you have the character and commitment, we will give you all the tools, training and support you need to succeed as a search and rescue crew member. The men and women who take on this task say the rewards of saving a life on the water are beyond measure.

You are:

19 years old or older
Physically fit
Mature and reliable
Available to be on call and remain near a rescue vessel as part of a rotation schedule.
A team player
A good communicator

You will:

Be available on call
Acquire the necessary certifications for your crew level.
Attend station meetings and events
Support your station’s community and fundraising activities
Support the larger RCM-SAR team across the region.
Be committed to excellence in search and rescue service to the public.

We provide:

A team of women and men who will support your training goals and membership needs.
Excellent marine search and rescue training, including a range of Transport Canada certifications, including:
- Pleasure Craft Operators Certificate
- Radio Operators Certificate
- First Responder
- Small Vessel Operator Proficiency
- RCM-SAR’s own comprehensive training program, including the Coxswain Leadership simulated electronic navigation training in our own fast rescue craft simulator.
- The latest personal safety equipment.
- The opportunity to work with other dedicated search and rescue crew members.
- The opportunity to crew on sophisticated search and rescue fast response vessels.
- Group insurance coverage.

SUPPORTING MEMBER – Recruitment Ongoing

You are:

Willing to offer your time and skills to support your local RCM-SAR Station.

You will:

Help your local rescue station with shore-based activities that support the safety of the search and rescue crews and maintain the readiness of the station to respond to emergencies.
Provide support in these or other areas:
- Maintenance
- Fundraising
- Administration
- Finance
- Public Relations
- Event Planning