FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: What is Search and Rescue Global 1 (SG1)?

SG1 is a volunteer search and rescue team serving the broader National Capital Region.

We provide search and rescue services to assist police in locating and rescuing missing persons such as children, hikers, hunters, those contemplating suicide and persons suffering from dementia disorders, such as Alzheimer’s.

SG1 is also developing capabilities to assist communities in case of large-scale emergencies or disaster.

We offer three Adventure Smart prevention programs to the public:

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police’s “Hug-a-Tree” program, which teaches children how to avoid getting lost and what to do if lost.

Survive Outside, a presentation on outdoor safety and the code of responsibility

Snow Safety Education Program, designed for children in grades 4-6, covering the Alpine Responsibility Code and backcountry hazards.

 

Q: Where do you search?

SG1 works with various police services in Ontario and Quebec, covering the National Capital Region and extending approximately to Arnprior, Cornwall and Maniwaki.

While some of our searching is urban, most occurs in non-urban environments like Gatineau Park.

 

Q: How many searches do you get in a year?

The number of searches is highly variable. In one year we could have only a few, while in another year we could have over a dozen.

Some searches take several hours while others will occur over several days.

Occasionally the team is activated but the person is found before searchers arrive.

 

Q: How does the team get involved in a search?

The police department that has jurisdiction over the area where a person has gone missing usually calls SG1.

 

Q: Typically, who joins your group?

Our members include teachers, students, retirees, firefighters, police officers, government and military personnel.

Some members are advanced wilderness travellers and explorers, whereas others are simply fit and looking to spend more time outside helping others.

We expect members to be active within the organization, and not just looking to add to their resume.

 

Q: How many members do you have?

Currently we have over 92 members, of which 64 are trained to search and are operationally ready

 We are always looking for new members.

 

Q: Are searchers paid?

All of our members are volunteers. Even our Board of Directors, Search Managers, instructors and specialty team members are volunteers.

 

Q: What kind of screening do new members go through?

 All prospective members must submit an application form detailing any related experience. Application forms can be downloaded from: www.sarglobal1.ca

 Application forms are reviewed to ensure that candidates meet our team’s requirements. An interview may be conducted.

Members must pass a Police Records Check for Service with the Vulnerable Sector every two years. You do not need this Check to join, but you need to complete it within 90 days of joining.

Operational members must pass the Basic Search and Rescue Skills course, including a number of written and practical tests.

 

Q: Where do you get your funding?

SG1 is 100% self-funded and relies heavily on our external fundraising activities.

Several times a year we participate in fundraising events, such as the Pierre Despatie Memorial Tennis Tournament at the Ottawa Lawn Bowling and Tennis Club, or races organized by Somersault.  Members are expected to participate in some of these events.

 We have also partnered with Somersault to offer the Ottawa Winterman Marathon, taking place in February.

 SG1 is a federally registered charity, meaning anyone can donate and receive a tax receipt. This also applies to donations through the Government of Canada Workplace Charitable Campaign.