Anyone who has planned a back country hike knows that there are risks to consider. But for those times when preparation isn’t enough, the Columbia Valley Search and Rescue team (CVSAR) offers a last resort for those caught beyond their abilities.

The team now boasts 50 members of varying qualifications, 20 more than a year ago, including a few high school students who have used their training towards credits in the classroom.

The CVSAR are a provincially administered group who are trained in rescuing people from the most remote locations. They work with other EMS groups to coordinate and execute searches for missing persons.

Their training includes climbing/mountain rescue, avalanche rescue, swift water rescue and ground searches. A rope team has just passed its qualifications logging time with the team in Cranbrook.

According to members, they see the most action during spring and summer rescuing hikers from difficult situations but they are still busy during the winter months with skiers. So far this year, they have had 13 calls, a normal quota according to president Steve Williams.

Anyone can join the team. “The first step is to sign up to be a member, that takes no training, it just takes volunteer time,” said Williams. From there, CVSAR recruits can take their Ground Search and Rescue or GSAR qualifications which takes upwards of 60 hours.

According to recent GSAR graduate and local high school teacher, Joanne Bragg, the level of difficulty can be different for everyone.

“It depends on your previous experience coming into it,” she said, “but the instruction is so thorough that anyone can do it.”

Anyone interested in joining is welcome to call Steve Williams at 250-688-1257.

Though the CVSAR is there to help people in trouble, they are a last resort and recommend that when venturing into the back country you should prepare with the proper equipment and supplies and let someone know of your trip and when you expect to return.