One Island, one team: How PEI Ground Search and Rescue serves our province from tip to tip

One Island, one team. That’s the spirit behind PEI Ground Search and Rescue (GSAR), the only single province-wide GSAR team in Canada, made up completely of volunteers. 

Available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and tip to tip, the members of PEIGSAR respond in all conditions. Whether it’s in the heat of summer or the depths of winter, they’re always ready to find and rescue people who are lost, injured or in need of assistance.

Jason Blackman, president of PEIGSAR, says it comes down to dedication and teamwork.

“Our team of 100 volunteers works quickly and tirelessly to serve our Island. We’re continuously enhancing our skills to make our searches as effective as possible.”

Members practice skills in navigation, survival, first aid, search techniques, tracking, and more, so they’re ready to step into any situation.

This includes hurricanes and other natural disasters. 

In these situations, PEIGSAR works closely with the PEI Emergency Measures Organization (EMO), which provides annual funding, training support, and collaboration at community events.

Before and during major emergencies, the PEI EMO coordinates with PEIGSAR to tap into the team’s capabilities and specialized training. Depending on the situation, PEIGSAR members may be tasked with a wide range of duties, from search operations to public safety checks.

While PEI EMO focuses on coordinating resources and support behind the scenes, PEIGSAR members are the boots on the ground. During Hurricane Fiona, for example, volunteers carried out door-to-door wellness checks and ensured that no Islander was left stranded without help. 

Blackman says PEIGSAR is always ready and willing to respond.  Making themselves impossible to miss, members are dressed in high-visibility orange and black clothing to stand out easily during searches and always carry team IDs to identify themselves to the public. 

“Our members are passionate about serving the Island,” Blackman says. “From West Cape to East Point, we’re here to help.”

Islanders are reminded to take the time to prepare for an emergency now. Learn how quick and easy it is to become prepared to face a range of emergencies at www.princeedwardisland.ca/BePrepared.

Learn more about PEIGSAR.