Saskatoon Search and Rescue Inc.

Saskatoon Search and Rescue Inc. (SSAR) is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to ground search and rescue operations. Established in 2008 and operated entirely by volunteers, SSAR provides emergency response services primarily in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, and surrounding areas. The organization specializes in locating missing persons, supporting community safety initiatives, and assisting with disaster response during major snowstorms, flooding, and wildfires.

Mission and Vision

SSAR's mission is to protect lives and support people in distress through dedicated service and teamwork. The team assists local authorities such as the Saskatoon Police Service, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and the Saskatoon Emergency Measures Organization in addressing community emergencies, particularly in locating lost or missing individuals. Besides active search operations, SSAR is committed to community outreach and public education to prevent search emergencies.

The vision of SSAR is to be recognized as a leading search and rescue organization in Canada. It aims to respond effectively to search emergencies and reduce harm to those lost or in distress by employing the latest technology, robust management systems, and effective training. SSAR strives to maintain sustainability as a charitable and volunteer organization with stable funding and an engaged membership.

Operations and Activities

SSAR members are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Volunteers dedicate time to extensive training, search missions, and administrative duties, with over 70 activations and 4,500 hours spent in search efforts recorded in a recent five-year period. The team is skilled in navigation, first aid, and incident management to effectively carry out their missions.

Apart from operational readiness, SSAR emphasizes public awareness and safety education programs within the community to foster preparedness and reduce the incidence of search emergencies.

Organizational Values

The organization's values guide its members’ behavior and decision-making. Key principles include:

• Community Service
• Respect
• Competence
• Collaboration
• Leadership
• Innovation
• Integrity
• Inclusiveness

Affiliations and Community Role

SSAR works closely with local law enforcement and emergency agencies to ensure a coordinated and efficient response to emergencies. As a volunteer-driven entity, it contributes significantly to local safety and disaster management efforts. SSAR is also part of the broader Canadian search and rescue community, aligning with national organizations that support and coordinate volunteer ground search and rescue groups.

Business Registration Number: 815992615RR0001