Sooke & Victoria Diver Rescue

Compass The Magazine of Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue October 2015

Sooke & Victoria Diver Rescue See page 2

[email protected] 24-hr. Media Line (+1) 778-352-1006 RESCUERESCUE ROUNDUPS

Stations 35 Victoria and 37 Sooke—June 6

A pair of missing divers was found safe in the Strait of Juan Neitsch and Tim Shilson departed base at 12:47 p.m. and de Fuca after a large multi-agency search. began searching half a nautical mile south of Beechy Head, At 12:30 p.m. on June 6, JRCC alerted RCM-SAR stations across Beecher Bay to a couple of nautical miles west of Race 35 Victoria and 37 Sooke of two missing divers who failed Rocks. to come to the surface near Race Rocks. Two Coast Guard Meanwhile, Victoria Coxswain Pierre Gagné and crew vessels, a number of vessels of opportunity and an RCAF members Mike Graham, Colin Guy and Earle Shirley Cormorant helicopter were also tasked to join the search. departed base at 12:50 p.m. JRCC tasked them to conduct a Sooke Coxswain Jason van der Valk and crew members shoreline search from Pedder Bay to Race Rocks, which they Paul Barrett, Barry Gifford, Britton Jacob-Schram, Ron began at 1:05 p.m.

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At 1:30 p.m., the Sooke crew’s spotter noticed something at scene, and both divers and their equipment were transferred the water’s surface approximately half a nautical mile south- on board. east of their location. Arriving at that location, they realized Days later, the spouse of one of the rescued divers set up that they had spotted some harbour porpoises. While the a Canada Helps page requesting donations to the Sooke crew waited for further instruction from JRCC regarding station’s supporting society. Her heartfelt words echo the feel- their next search location, the spotter saw another black shape ings of so many assisted by search and rescue personnel: in the water: the divers. “We owe a huge debt of gratitude to the searchers. The The Sooke crew brought their vessel alongside the divers personnel at the Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue and retrieved them from the water. A quick assessment deter- stations are volunteers: well-trained, well-prepared and ready mined that both were tired but not injured. At 1:40 p.m., the to respond 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Without them this Sooke crew notified JRCC that they had recovered the divers story would have had a much different ending, one that is dif- and that they did not need medical attention. All other rescue ficult to contemplate.” assets, including Station 35 Victoria, were stood down at this Another great ending, thanks to all the agencies involved. time. At 1:49 p.m., the divers’ vessel met the Sooke crew on Well done everyone!

A Helpful Acquisition

The binoculars used by the Sooke crew to spot the divers in this incident were purchased by head office using New SAR Initiatives (NIF) grant money. According to Station 37 Coxswain Jason van der Valk, “The new binoculars head office purchased for stations using the NIF money made all the difference in the world. These binoculars that were used to spot the missing divers allowed us to clearly see much further away and I attribute a lot to them for the successful outcome of this search and rescue tasking.”

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Station 63 Kitimat—June 22

A routine tow turned into an overnight mission for a Kiti- mat crew, thanks to a number of unexpected obstacles. At 8:40 p.m. on the night of June 22, RCM-SAR Station 63 Kitimat responded to reports of a disabled vessel in Sue Channel with six people on board. Coxswain Aron Clem- ent and crew members Rheannon Brooks and Terry Marleau departed base in the station’s relief vessel Snowflake Responder II. Their marina’s fuel pumps had been unserviceable for several days and their main vessel Snowflake Responder III did not have enough fuel for the mission. At 9:40 p.m., the crew was in five-foot seas alongside Cleo Point when they lost their starboard engine. Attempts to

restart or repair the engine were unsuccessful, so the crew Robin Rowland Photo: reported their status to the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre and returned to base on their port engine. vessel) and both were quickly assessed and determined to be While transiting back to base, the crew contacted Station well. The vessel, which had been towed twice by Coast Guard Leader Chris Peacock and told him about the engine failure. assets in the last two days, had been attempting to reach Kiti- Peacock phoned an emergency contact at the marina and mat on a kicker engine that failed at their current location. discovered that the pumps were now serviceable, meaning the At 12:17 a.m., the Snowflake Responder IIItook the vessel Snowflake Responder III could be refueled. in a stern tow and commenced their return trip to MK Bay After returning to base, prepping the Snowflake Responder Marina near Kitimat, approximately three hours from their III and refueling, the crew (with the addition of Coxswain current location. At 3:10 a.m., they arrived at the marina Duncan Peacock) set out again just after 11:00 p.m. to the and changed to an alongside tow. The crew then secured the disabled vessel’s last known position. At 11:51 p.m., crew disabled vessel on the boat ramp dock and returned to base at members spotted the vessel’s lights and proceeded to tie up 3:45 a.m. alongside them. This simple tow that turned into a seven-and-a-half hour Only two of the original six vessel passengers were on marathon mission was ably handled by the Kitimat crew. board (the other four had returned to Kitimat on another

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Station 1 West Vancouver—May 30

An unprepared kayaker is lucky to be alive after a dramatic rescue involving RCM-SAR Station 1 West Vancouver and one of the Coast Guard’s inshore rescue boats (IRBs). On the afternoon of May 30, a concerned citizen reported an overturned kayak off West Vancouver’s Whytecliff Park. The kayaker was in the water and appeared to be trying to swim the kayak to shore. If crews had arrived 20 seconds later, he would have been gone. Photo: WhytecliffPark.com Photo:

At 2:35 p.m., Station 1 received the call for assistance and Coxswain Bruce Falkins and crew members Boudewijn Neijens and Steven Urquhart departed base in the station’s While the IRB crew attended to the kayaker, the Station dedicated response vessel RCM-SAR 1B 12 minutes later. 1 crew requested an ambulance meet the vessels at a nearby A few minutes after leaving base, both the Coast Guard fuel dock. At 3:05 p.m., RCM-SAR 1B arrived at the dock IRB and RCM-SAR 1B arrived on scene and began searching and secured a spot for the IRB vessel. BC Ambulance Service the shoreline for the kayaker. At 2:50 p.m., both groups spot- arrived shortly afterwards and accepted the kayaker from the ted the kayak and kayaker in choppy seas and immediately IRB crew, who arrived at the dock at 3:17 p.m. The Station proceeded toward them at top speed. 1 crew was stood down at 3:35 p.m. and returned to base at By the time the vessels reached the kayaker he had been 3:40 p.m. submerged for approximately 30 seconds—only one of his The kayaker in this incident had been in very real danger of hands remained above water. He was quickly recovered by the losing his life. He was outfitted in a heavy fleece and a wool IRB crew and brought aboard their vessel, while his kayak sweater and was not wearing or carrying any kind of floata- was secured by the Station 1 crew. tion device. According to Station 1 Coxswain Falkins, “When

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the crews reached the kayaker, he had been under water for at least 30 seconds and could no longer swim. If crews had arrived 20 seconds later, he would have been gone.” Thanks to the quick and professional response of both agencies in this incident, a life was saved on the water.

Station 59 Deep Bay—July 10

A medical emergency prompted a quick response from an RCM-SAR Station 59 Deep Bay crew on an otherwise quiet Friday afternoon. At 12:03 p.m. on July 10, JRCC tasked the Deep Bay station to assist an injured female on a vessel heading from Denman Island to Comox. The teenaged girl had been travel- ing in a large canoe being towed by a powerboat and she sustained injuries in a fall after the canoe traveled through some large waves. At 12:10 p.m., Coxswain Bill Veenhof and crew mem- stretcher and transferred her to the Mapleguard, with the bers Barrie Anderson, Paul DenHaan and Thomas Hoefle assistance of the powerboat crew. They then proceeded at departed base in the station’s dedicated response vessel speed to the emergency dock in Deep Bay and transferred the Mapleguard, arriving on scene seven minutes later. patient to the waiting BC Ambulance Service. By 12:40 p.m., The injured girl had been taken aboard the powerboat; the the ambulance had departed and by 12:55 p.m., the crew had Deep Bay crew boarded and administered first aid to the returned to base. semi-conscious girl, who complained of a sore neck and ankle. Thanks to the outstanding work of the Deep Bay crew, the At 12:25 p.m., the crew placed the girl on their clamshell injured girl received fast, professional care. The Deep Bay crew boarded and administered first aid to the semi- conscious girl, who complained of a sore neck and ankle.

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Station 12 Halfmoon Bay—Old Sechelt Mine Fire

A large forest fire on the Sunshine Coast was contained, Station 12 crews took on a variety of tasks over the course thanks to the hard work of a number of agencies and support of the fire. Station Leader Mark Wenn coordinated the from RCM-SAR Station 12 Halfmoon Bay. multi-day efforts of a number of Station 12 crews, as directed The blaze, dubbed the Old Sechelt Mine Fire, began on July by the local emergency program coordinator. 2 approximately two kilometres northwest of Sechelt. While Much focus was given to the residents of Carlson Point in the fire covered over 400 hectares at one point, it was brought Sechelt Inlet, who faced the most immediate danger from the under control by the outstanding efforts of firefighting -per fire. On July 2, a Station 12 crew collected the names, num- sonnel and other first responder agencies. bers and other information regarding the residents of Carlson

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Point, as well as their means of egress from the area, and gave this information to the emergency program coordinator. On July 3, the Sunshine Coast Regional District issued evacuation alerts, which recommended Carlson Point residents leave the area. These were delivered to the residents by ground SAR crews, who were transported via water by a Station 12 crew as the only access road had been closed due to the fire. There was a great deal of cross-agency coordination,

which resulted in greater Andi Mortenson Photo: learning about operations removal of compulsory evacuation notices and the placement and procedures in larger- of non-compulsory evacuation alerts. On July 21, a Station 12 crew returned to Carlson Point for scale events. the sixth time. Their role once again was to transport ground SAR, who were tasked to remove the evacuation alerts. Ultimately the fire was 100 per cent contained, thanks On July 6, another Station 12 crew transported ground to the extraordinary efforts of everyone involved in this SAR and RCMP to Carlson Point to serve Sunshine Coast operation. This event called for a great deal of cross-agency Regional District-issued evacuation orders to the residents. interaction and coordination, and resulted in greater learning On July 7, a Station 12 crew was tasked to take a structure about operations and procedures in larger-scale events. protection specialist/fire commissioner to Carlson Point, to Kudos to the Station 12 crew members for all of their inspect the homes in immediate danger from the fire. support! On July 12, with the fire posing less of a threat, the evacuation order was rescinded. A Station 12 crew transferred land SAR personnel to Carlson Point and assisted them with the

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Marina Staff Help the Helpers Mill Bay Conquers Cobble Hill

ur search and rescue crews are always working to help others, but nother successful Conquer Cobble Hill Fundraiser took place on sometimes they need a little help too. June 27, raising over $4,300 for RCM-SAR Station 34 Mill Bay. O On July 7, crews from three stations on south Vancouver Island A The annual event started with a hike to the top of Cobble Hill ran low on fuel during a lengthy search mission. Thanks to the generos- (pictured below), followed by a dinner at the Cobblestone Pub, which ity of Pedder Bay RV Resort & Marina, the crews were able to refuel featured a poker rally, silent auction and door prizes. without upfront payment and continue on their mission. Congratulations to everyone involved in the planning and execution In a letter of thanks to the marina staff, RCM-SAR President Jim of this important event. Not only did it raise the station’s profile in their Lee stated: community, it also raised much-needed funds for station search and “Our crews from three RCM-SAR stations took part in a very long rescue activities. and extensive search. They came to your facility when they were running short on fuel. Our volunteers did not have an account with you, nor money to pay, but you did not hesitate in providing fuel and offering to make payment arrangements later. This enabled our crews to resume their search.” This demonstration of community spirit enabled the crews to continue their search without much delay. We thank the staff of Pedder Bay Marina for their kindness and generosity.

Run Supports North Vancouver Station

orth Vancouver’s Bridge Brewing held their Third Annual 10k Growler Run on July 12. The event, which included a number Nof members of RCM-SAR Station 2 North Vancouver, requires runners to carry two glass bottles weighing more than five pounds each for the entire 10 kilometres. All participants receive an early-morning beer— once they’ve crossed the finish line! All proceeds from this event are being donated to Station 2. Thanks go to Bridge Brewing for their support!

Compass 9 October 2015 Crew Member of the Month: Pierre Gagné RCM-SAR Station 35 Victoria’s Pierre Gagné is October’s Crew Member of the Month.

Training and Achievements:

• SARnav simulator training (levels 1&2), RHIOT training, MED A3 • four-year RCM-SAR member • coxswain, co-training officer

From Station 35 Media Liaison Jackie Cowan:

Pierre exemplifies what it is to be a member of RCM-SAR. His knowledge and skill, combined with his commitment to teach and share what he has learned over the years plays a large role in the successful day-to-day operations of RCM-SAR Station 35. Pierre always brings solid leadership and outstanding search and rescue skills with him when out on the water, whether it be on a training exercise or rescue mission. The hours he commits to maintaining and improving the high level of RCM-SAR standards at Station 35 is a shining example for all RCM-SAR 35 members to follow. Pierre started out at RCM-SAR Station 14 Gibsons, where he became their training officer and a coxswain. Pierre decided to make a move to Victoria and RCM-SAR Station 35 was the lucky benefactor! Then-Station Leader Mike Diegan recognized Pierre’s knowledge, commitment and passion and offered him the position of co-training officer and coxswain for Station 35. Pierre, we at RCM-SAR Station 35 thank you and applaud you for all that you do for our station and for RCM-SAR!

Compass 10 October 2015 PROFILE Building a Future Together An apprentice carpenter finds success with RCM-SAR

work with metal, you work with a bit of everything,” David says. The contractor, Jason McFadden of McFadden Contracting, was so impressed with David’s work that he hired him as a full-time apprentice carpenter, thanks, in part, to a provincial wage subsidy offered through WorkBC. David found his fit on a government-funded training project to build a training centre for RCM-SAR for eight

Having bounced around white collar On the RCM-SAR project, David, months. jobs for a decade, David Steeves was 31, got the experience he needed to done with office work. get a good job in the trades. He helped The wage subsidy gives his employer an After suffering another layoff last year, clear the ground, build the foundation, added incentive to offer the young man he went to his local WorkBC Employ- frame the building and tried his hand at full-time work and helps pay part of ment Services Centre and found his plumbing as well. David’s salary. fit on a government-funded training “Before I started, I thought carpentry “It has been a real pleasure to work project to build a training centre for was just working with wood. But on with David, and we are delighted he is RCM-SAR for eight months. this project, you work with wood, you pursuing a career in carpentry,” Jason

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McFadden says. “From the start he we can improve our training for British will house RCM-SAR’s fast rescue craft took a keen interest in learning carpen- Columbia’s marine rescue volunteers simulator, is scheduled to open in the try techniques. He has picked up new even sooner than we’d planned. We are fall. skills very quickly and he has become really impressed with the work that the David’s so keen on the project and a valued member of our construction participants have done, and are proud to the rescue training centre, he’s joined team, so much so that we have hired have provided an opportunity for them RCM-SAR Station 37 Sooke as a him as a carpenter apprentice.” to gain work experience and gain new volunteer crew member. RCM-SAR is “I wanted to make sure I was never skills.” pleased to have David aboard! unemployed again,” David says, con- Before he got into carpentry through fident that those days are now over. “I WorkBC, David had decided that office think the Job Creation Partnerships are administrative work wasn’t for him and a great idea.” he was looking to pursue the trades So does RCM-SAR President Jim when his WorkBC case worker men- Lee: “This program has helped us tioned the Job Creation Partnership at accelerate our building project so that RCM-SAR. The training facility, which

Compass 12 October 2015 MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS Media Handbook Helps Tell Our Story

RCM-SAR has released its new Media Handbook for members who are involved in communicating their station’s activities to media and the public. The handbook is available to all members online. “RCM-SAR has a powerful story to tell, and we enjoy great support from the media,” said Rob Duffus, Director of Marketing and Communications. “TheMedia Handbook talks about how we can make the most of our profile in the community and use today’s communications tools to support our service to the public.” The handbook describes the media environment in which RCM-SAR operates, the needs of main- stream and social media, protocols during major incidents, key messages and tips for responding to reporters. It also invites stations to share stories, images and video with head office to make the most of promotional opportunities, including re-posting it for our more than 3,000 social media followers. RCM-SAR North Vancouver Media Liaison Officer Paul DeGrace welcomes the handbook, and says it should encourage stations to be even more pro-active in keeping in touch with their local media. “Good media relations helps raise public awareness about RCM-SAR, brings in more donations, attracts interest from new recruits and makes sure that our volunteers are recognized for the tremen- dous work they do.” Download your own copy of the RCM-SAR Media Handbook at: http://ccga-pacific.org/files/library/rcmsar-media-handbook.pdf.

Compass 13 October 2015 BOATING SAFETY Partners in Boating Safety Sunshine Coast Gets Safer With Life Rings This summer, Port Metro Vancouver reached out Beach safety was stepped up all over to the boating community to increase awareness the Sunshine Coast with 11 life rings of what they do to keep our waterways safe. installed at unsupervised beaches this Following is an excerpt from one of their marine summer. safety editorials: An initiative was launched by Sta- tion 12 Halfmoon Bay to install a Port Metro Vancouver is responsible for managing life ring at the pier in Davis Bay, but over 16,000 hectares of water. The port authority’s after overwhelming support from Operations Centre monitors all marine activities the District of Sechelt as well as the within Port Metro Vancouver’s jurisdiction 24/7. Sunshine Coast Regional District, Every vessel entering the port may be subject to a nine more rings were installed at nine other beaches. Congratulations to everyone visit from a harbour patrol officer. During a visit on for a brilliant idea. board, the officer may issue orders to accomplish This project is being coordinated by Jane MacDonald at Station 12 with sup- certain tasks and may ask to see certain documents. port from Nikki Brennan, Stacey Buchhorn, Mike Clarabut, Wayne Jackson, Brian These will generally relate to sealing of over-side Klassen, Ida Koopman, Steve Matthews, Alan Skelley and Mark Wenn. discharge valves, bunker fuel in use, and overall “We kept waiting for someone to install a life ring on that pier, since it was just compliance with required practices and procedures. encouraging more and more young swimmers to swim off that beautiful new dock,” When it comes to recreational boating, harbour said MacDonald. “And that never really happened.” patrol officers and other agencies conduct routine In the event of an emergency, MacDonald said it would take RCM-SAR about vessel inspections. Vessels not in compliance 20 minutes to get to the scene. “The summers can be very hot, and if I were a kid with safe boating practices may be ticketed by I would be jumping off all those docks and piers,” MacDonald said. “Can we just the police. Port Metro Vancouver’s safe boating make sure we have safety equipment?” practices are there to keep recreational boaters In addition to Davis Bay, life rings went in at beaches in Porpoise Bay, Secret and others safe on waters. Cove, Halfmoon Bay, Trail Bay, Whiskey Slough and Pender Harbour.

Cathy Dupuis Boating Safety

-Excerpts from the Coast Reporter

Compass 14 October 2015 Fifteen for Fifteen A look back at RCM-SAR’s top 15 achievements of the past 15 years Photo: Andrew Strain Photo: Photo: WishartLonnie Photo: Fifteen for Fifteen

Fifteen Years of Growth

In 1978, various volunteer marine search and rescue groups in British Columbia created a unified marine SAR organization known as the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary–Pacific. Over the years, the organization slowly grew and matured, responding to new demands and chal- lenges as they arose. In 2000 however, an important shift toward self-determination took place and the organization began a rapid transformation into a world-class marine search and rescue organization. What in 2000 was a fairly loose association of various types of vessels run by owner/operators is now a cohesive fleet of state-of-the-art fast rescue craft operated by highly-trained volunteers—an organization now known as Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue. While many accomplishments have taken place over the past 15 years, we chose the following 15 because of their impact on the organization at both the local and regional levels. Photo: Robin Rowland Photo: Fifteen for Fifteen

15. Search and Rescue Crew Manual

First published in 2002, the manual was a collaboration between RCM-SAR volunteers, the Canadian Coast Guard and the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre. Considered a major milestone in RCM-SAR’s training program, the manual was one of the first resources that provided consistent training standards to all RCM-SAR members. The manual was reprinted in 2006 and 2011 by the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary (National) for distribution across the country. It is also widely used by various outside agencies. 14. Kids Don’t Float lifejacket loaner stations

RCM-SAR’s Kids Don’t Float program, which provides free loaner lifejackets for children at marinas, was piloted at six sites in 2002. The program was an immediate success and demand from the stations saw 14 Kids Don’t Float boards in place by the end of 2005. Mustang Survival generously provides the PFDs for the program and local police, municipalities and marinas support this SAR prevention initiative. The program also helps raise RCM-SAR’s profile in the communities that house the boards. There are currently 39 Kids Don’t Float boards situated throughout the province that are maintained by local RCM-SAR stations. Photo: Nathan Leung Nathan Photo: Fifteen for Fifteen 13. Transport Canada members with the training necessary to do fundraising methods were all adapted for certified training their jobs, they also provide certifications that RCM-SAR from the RNLI’s model. are widely recognized, ensure crew compe- Training has also been positively impacted Providing the best possible training for tency and provide an independent measure of by other SAR organizations. In 2006, 2009 RCM-SAR crews has always been a top prior- training quality. and 2014 KNRM (Royal Netherlands Sea ity for the organization. In 2009, RCM-SAR Rescue Institution) Chief Trainer Ton Haas- added a number of Transport Canada-certified 12. International relationships noot provided high-level crew and coxswain courses to its training program. training at numerous RCM-SAR stations. In Currently, the Transport Canada courses RCM-SAR Executive Officer Stan Warlow 2013, RCM-SAR joined the International provided to our members includes Small first visited the UK’s Royal National Lifeboat Maritime Rescue Federations’ (IMRF’s) Vessel Operator Proficiency (SVOP), Simu- Institution in 2001. The lessons he learned coxswain exchange program. Two of our cox- lated Electronic Navigation-Limited (SEN-L), from the world’s foremost volunteer marine swains travelled to marine SAR organizations Emergency Duties A3 (MED A3), and search and rescue organization still impact in Europe for a week and came back with a Marine Advanced First Aid (MAFA). RCM-SAR today. Standardized training, wealth of new skills and experiences. Not only do these courses provide crew community vessel ownership and dynamic Photo: Andrew Strain Photo: Fifteen for Fifteen $450 11. First rescue station in the Interior In May 2012, RCM-SAR made its first foray into freshwater search and rescue when Sta- potential tax tion 106 Shuswap became operational. Highly active during the summer boating season, they savings for active responded to 44 calls in their first four months of service alone, thanks in large part to the crew members annual influx of approximately 200,000 tourists during the summer months. with volunteer tax Station members work closely with BC Ambulance and land search and rescue and have logged many serious calls, typically for medical assistance. In three short years they have credit clearly proven RCM-SAR’s value outside of traditional coverage areas. 10. Volunteer tax credit

Both RCM-SAR and the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary (National) lobbied hard in 2013 for marine rescue volunteers to receive the same federal tax credit as volunteer firefight- ers. In February 2014, the government announced it was extending the credit to marine rescuers. The tax credit means a savings of up to $450 for marine rescue volunteers who provide a minimum of 200 hours of service during the year. According to CCGA National Chair Randy Strandt, “This new tax credit is a nice recognition for the hard work, commitment and dedication our brave volunteers provide. The government has acknowledged the key role these crews play in essential search and rescue services.” 9. Construction of the training building

RCM-SAR members know how vital training is for marine SAR crew members. Three- quarters of RCM-SAR’s missions involve immediate danger or distress and because of this our crews need the best training possible to deal with the worst possible conditions. This need was addressed in a major way on October 22, 2014, the date of the ground- breaking ceremony for RCM-SAR’s new training building in East Sooke. This three-storey building was designed by noted Canadian architect Paul Merrick and will house the organization’s fast rescue craft simulator and other training facilities. Fifteen for Fifteen

Scheduled to open in late 2015, the building will consolidate much of RCM-SAR’s regional-level training in one location, providing training space for both RCM-SAR members and outside agencies interested in our courses. The new training building is the state-of-the-art training facility RCM-SAR volunteers need and deserve, and a major mile- 25.3 stone in the organization’s training services. acres of training 8. Safety Management System

centre property Ensuring the safety of our crews and the public they assist has always been RCM-SAR’s top priority. In 2008, the organization implemented a formal safety management system to codify this priority and a safety management officer was hired to oversee the system. The safety management system is designed to ensure the safety of all members, to prevent human injury or loss of life and to avoid damage to the environment and to property in all operations. The system allows RCM-SAR to regularly audit safety practices and equipment, set standards, ensure competencies and qualifications, prepare for emergencies and report and learn from accidents or hazardous occurrences. Regular station visits also ensure local training 8 Type II vessels needs are being met and stations are receiving all of the regional support that they need. 4 Type I vessels 7. Move to a governance board In 2004, RCM-SAR worked with a team from the University of Victoria to develop a new organizational structure to manage growth, support day-to-day functions, ensure efficient performance and minimize risk. At 2005’s annual general meeting the membership voted overwhelmingly in favour of replacing the board of directors with a governance board and management team. Within this structure the governance board represents the diverse regions within RCM-SAR and provides strategic direction, policy development and performance management, while the management team looks after day-to-day operations. This significant shift addressed issues with the board-style structure (which included over- reliance on individual volunteers and potential of bias and conflict of interest) and created a more professional and efficient system for overseeing and running the organization. The shift Fifteen for Fifteen

to the governance model has also meant increased membership input at the board and management levels, increased accountability and transpar- ency of board activities and diversified board knowledge, experience and expertise. 6. Bobbie the Safety Boat

Bobbie first joined RCM-SAR’s fleet in 2002. A remote-controlled robot purchased with a New SAR Initiatives Fund grant, Bobbie immediately helped revamp the organization’s SAR prevention program by providing members with a fun way to promote boating safety awareness in local communities. Two Bobbies were purchased through the initial grant and six more followed in subsequent years. Each Bobbie is based at a different RCM-SAR station, making it easier to reach communities throughout the Pacific region. Bobbie’s primary power lies in his appeal to young children, an important but hard-to-reach audience for boating and water safety messages. Through visits to schools and public events such as parades and boat shows Bobbie has promoted boating safety to thousands throughout the Pacific region’s communities. 5. SAR Management System

RCM-SAR’s information management was successfully streamlined in 2006 with the launch of the SAR Management System (SMS), a web- based data management and reporting system. The SMS was developed in 2005 and launched in 2006 by RCM-SAR volunteers and staff with the goal of eliminating excess paperwork and tracking SAR missions, assets, personal achievements, training and other information. In its first six months of operation alone, the SMS saved an estimated 1,000 hours of volunteer time. The SMS continues to serve as RCM-SAR’s primary means of tracking all aspects of the organization’s operations, saving significant volunteer and staff time and contributing to effective planning and decision making at the local and regional levels. The SMS has also been adopted for use by other regions of the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary to track their own data. 4. RCM-SAR designed standardized vessels

As part of an overall push towards standardization across the organization, RCM-SAR’s vessel standardization program was launched in 2005. By 2008, regional vessel construction standards were implemented and by 2010 the designs for RCM-SAR’s Type II Falkins-class waterjet-pow- ered cabin vessel were complete. Designs for RCM-SAR’s Type I rigid hull inflatable vessel were completed soon after in 2011. The first vessel, Nanaimo’s Type II vessel JC McGregor, officially joined RCM-SAR’s fleet in 2011. There are currently eight Type II and four Type I vessels in RCM-SAR’s fleet with more currently under construction. Fifteen for Fifteen

For the first time in the organization’s history, standardized, leading-edge dedicated response vessels have been developed, with both crew member requirements and high safety standards incorporated into the design. These new vessels are state-of-the-art and provide our crews with added safety and the ability to handle longer, more complex missions. As vessel standardization continues members can expect more consistent training and greater safety for crew members and those they help. 3. Rebranding to Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue

Completely changing the organization’s name and look was a major—and sometimes contentious—undertaking. The process began as far back as 2008 as a response to a lack of public awareness of the organization and confusion with the Canadian Coast Guard, making both fundraising and public recognition frustratingly difficult. Countless hours of research and preparation by volunteers and staff went into the rebranding process. On top of developing strategies for effectively rolling out the new brand, changes had to be made to marketing materials, vessel and station signage, websites, call signs and clothing. The public launch of RCM-SAR took place on May 26, 2012. The positive impact was immediate, particularly in terms of media coverage, and over the past three years public recognition of the organization has only continued to grow. Our distinct brand is benefiting fundraising, recruit- ing and public awareness, as well as media coverage for the tireless work of our volunteers.

39 4 Kids Don’t Float lifejacket In-house Transport Canada loaner stations certified courses Fifteen for Fifteen

2. Fast rescue craft simulator

One of the cornerstones of RCM-SAR’s training program is its state-of-the-art fast rescue craft simulator. As faster, more complicated vessels became the norm, RCM-SAR recognized the importance of providing safe but realistic training for crew members, particularly for extreme- condition scenarios that would be dangerous in real life. In 2004 RCM-SAR secured a New SAR Initiatives Fund grant to develop the world’s first fast rescue craft simulator. Combined with corpo- rate donations and hundreds of hours of volunteer time, the program took shape and simulator training officially began in 2008. While initially the simulator course was designed to train volunteers in proper procedures used in restricted visibility, new courses have been developed to expand the scope of simulator training, including SARNav 1 and 2 courses plus small vessel operator proficiency certification. A new jet boat simulator cabin is under construction and will be installed in the new RCM-SAR training building. The new simulator will feature improved software and projection for an even more realistic training experience. 1. Purchase of Glenairley property for Regional Training Centre

Not many events are more momentous than buying your first home, and in 2012 RCM-SAR did just that. When the organization was first established its offices were located at the Canadian Coast Guard base in Victoria. Several years ago it became clear that this location was not sustainable in the long term and the search began for property that would meet RCM-SAR’s need for simulator, classroom and office space as well as water access for training. RCM-SAR looked at more than 50 properties. The most promising was the 25-acre Glenairley estate on Sooke Basin, owned by the Sisters of St. Ann. While there were some roadblocks that held up the purchase of the property, it was eventually sold by the Sisters to RCM-SAR in 2012, at a reduced price in recognition of the valuable work done by RCM-SAR’s volunteers. In late 2012, RCM-SAR moved its administration offices to the site and began developing the property as a regional training centre. This home, which was merely a dream for more than a decade, finally became a reality, one that also gives the organization the potential for a truly exciting future. The importance of this purchase to both the present-day and the future RCM-SAR is perhaps summed up best through words spoken by then-President Randy Strandt just before the property was bought: “As a board and I believe also as members, we have some obligation to leave behind a legacy that ensures our successors will not only be able to continue on in the tradition we have set but also continue to grow and improve upon the framework we built.” TRAINING & OPERATIONS What’s New in Training and Operations

Training Building

Building continues on RCM-SAR’s new training building. Several cedar logs from the training centre acreage were milled just a few kilometres down the road. This home-grown wood will be used for window trim and other elements of the building. The windows have now been installed, thanks in large part to a very generous donation from Starline Windows. The roof has also been installed and work continues on the interior. Volunteer painters are needed for both interior and exterior work. If you are able to help out, please contact us at info@ rcmsar.com.

International Lifeboat Crew Exchange

The International Maritime Rescue Federation is holding its fourth annual lifeboat crew exchange program the week of September 26–October 3. The program allows marine search and rescue crew members the opportunity to train for a week with like organizations, learning new skills and training Special Events techniques. RCM-SAR has officially secured one seat (with the Summer is a busy time for RCM-SAR crews, both on the German Maritime Search and Rescue Association) and water and off. Many of our stations took part in special events hopes to secure another in the next few weeks. over the summer, such as Canada Day parades and other local events, including the following:

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• Station 64 Prince Rupert took part in Seafest the week- Communications end of June 13–14. • Station 34 Mill Bay (along with Bobbie the Safety If your station is out of service for any reason, there are Boat) were on hand at the Cowichan Bay Wooden Boat three steps that must be followed: Festival the weekend of June 27–28. 1. Inform JRCC • Station 14 Gibsons participated in the 47th Annual Sea 2. Inform surrounding stations Cavalcade the weekend of July 25–26. 3. Inform head office • Stations 1 West Vancouver, 2 North Vancouver and 10 It is crucial that all of these groups are aware of your sta- Richmond were all present at the Vancouver Celebra- tion’s service status. We can then work to ensure coverage is tion of Light July 25, 29 and August 1. in place until your station is back in service. Whether they are providing safety patrols or participat- Many thanks go to all of our crews for maintaining SAR ing in parades, it is wonderful to see our crews out in their coverage in the busy summer season. We truly appreciate all communities. that you do!

Yvonne Laviolette helps prepare for the Comox Valley Canada Day Parade Station 5 Crescent Beach’s display at Canada Day by the Bay in White Rock

Compass 25 October 2015 TRAINING & OPERATIONS RCM-SAR & UVic Partner to Develop Fitness Testing

RCM-SAR is partnering with the University of Victoria School of Exercise Science, Physical and Health Education to develop fitness testing requirements for RCM-SAR members. As most RCM-SAR members are aware, we are committed to introducing fitness and medical standards for our active SAR crew members to ensure crew safety. The development of the fitness testing program is being carried out by graduate students Melissa Clarke and Lynneth Stuart-Hill. The project has been divided into three major phases: Phase Three: Phase One: • Validity and reliability testing with current RCM-SAR • Review of the job and physical demands of RCM-SAR members crew members (e.g., man overboard recovery, operating • Development of a prescreening fitness test and fitness a SAR pump, etc.) training manual to help prepare RCM-SAR members • Determination of the required capacities for safe and for testing effective performance In addition, for members who do not successfully complete Phase Two: the testing, there will be a program developed to help bring • Review of current fitness tests and standards in closely- the member to the required fitness standard. related or similar organizations Phase one of the project is well underway. A number • Development of fitness test and standard for of RCM-SAR stations, including Oak Bay, Mill Bay and RCM-SAR Sooke, have already hosted Lynneth, Melissa and Director

Compass 26 October 2015 TRAINING & OPERATIONS of Operations and Training Cheryl Caldwell during routine training exercises. These visits have given them a clear picture of the essential tasks often carried out by RCM-SAR crew members. More station visits have been scheduled for the near future, as the goal is to develop a realistic picture of the typical physical demands placed on RCM-SAR crew members across all platforms. The main goal of the fitness testing program is to develop real-life standards that will enhance the safety and effectiveness of all our crews.

The main goal of the fitness testing program is to develop real-life standards that will enhance the safety and effectiveness of all our crews. If you have any questions, please contact Cheryl Caldwell at [email protected].

Compass 27 October 2015 PRACTICAL SKILLS An International Exercise RCM-SAR crews train with the United States Coast Guard Photo: John DelMonte John Photo:

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RCM-SAR crews took training to the international level during recent exercises with the United States Coast Guard (USCG). Stations 5 Crescent Beach and 8 Delta trained with members of Coast Guard Station Bellingham, who then repeated the exercise with crew members from Station 36 Saanich on the morning of July 12 (see sidebar next page). On the afternoon of July 10 at 3:30 p.m., the USCG arrived at the Station 8 dock and discussed with Station 8 crew operations,

Exercises like these highlight the common mission that David McNamara and Ken Sissons) in they do it and vice versa. It also familiarizes brings both groups Boundary Bay. each group with the other’s capabilities.” together. The primary objectives of the exercise The exercise, which was conceived and were to develop interoperability between the coordinated by Graeme Jones of the USCG Photo: Doug Alderson Photo: Bellingham station and nearby RCM-SAR Bellingham station, began with a stern tow. procedures and equipment used by each orga- stations (RCM-SAR stations 5 and 8 regu- While Station 8’s vessel was towed by the nization. The first exercise began around 5:00 larly respond to calls in American waters) USCG vessel, the USCG crew passed a sealed p.m. at the Delta station’s home base at Point and to simulate a multi-agency SAR mission pump barrel back to Station 8’s vessel via the Roberts Marina. After a brief meeting, the overseen by a single on-scene coordinator. towline and then conducted a man overboard Delta crew (Dale Anaka, Doug Blais, Doug “Doing SAR training exercises with other drill while keeping the tow. Duncan and Jake Stephens) and the USCG agencies adds an invaluable amount of famil- This exercise highlighted both the skills team rendezvoused with the Crescent Beach iarity,” said Station 5 Training Officer John of the USCG team and the difference in team ( John DelMonte, Michel Gaboriault, DelMonte. “We know what they do and how standard operating procedures between

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On July 12, RCM-SAR Station 36 Saanich took part in a similar training exercise with the same USCG crew. Training Officer Doug Alderson and crew members Marlene Dinsmore, Darcy Mead and Tim Sanderson met the US crew at 9:30 a.m. at Danger Shoal in Washington and conducted towing and search exercises. In the words of Saanich Training Offi- cer Doug Alderson, “Participation in a joint-training exercise with a well-organized and highly-skilled crew of the USCG vessel 29204 on July 12 was certainly a great

Photo: Doug Alderson Photo: opportunity for our crew. While many of our procedures for organizations—following RCM-SAR proce- review the similarities and differences in pro- towing are very similar, it was valuable to dures would have meant dropping the tow and cedures between both organizations. see the sometimes subtle yet important then rescuing the person in the water. While there are certainly differences differences. The next portion of the exercise focused on between the way the USCG and RCM-SAR These search exercises emphasized the search patterns. Station 5 deployed a datum conduct search and rescue missions, exercises necessity for good communications and marker buoy (DMB) and performed a two- like these highlight the common mission that competent execution. vessel sector search with the USCG vessel. brings both groups together. Everyone on our crew was delighted After completing this search, Station 5 repo- As Station 5’s John DelMonte sums it up, to be involved and spoke highly of the sitioned their vessel to Station 8’s DMB and “The exercise really focused on the big pic- quality of the training experience.” initiated a creeping line search, while Station 8 ture—we are out there to save lives on the completed their parallel track search. water.” The four-hour exercise was capped off with Many thanks go to all those in the USCG a debrief in the bay, which allowed all crews and RCM-SAR involved in organizing this to consolidate their newfound knowledge and outstanding exercise.

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Pod Exercise Showcases New Hovercraft By Scott Smith, Coxswain, RCM-SAR Station 1 West Vancouver

On June 20, RCM-SAR stations 1 West Vancouver, 2 North a briefing of the weekend’s activities by Coast Guard SAR Vancouver, 4 Squamish and 14 Gibsons participated in the Liaison Officer Mike Mitchell and for a detailed tour of the Canadian Coast Guard’s Howe Sound pod training exercise. Coast Guard's new hovercraft Moytel. The pod included Gibsons RCMP, Coast Guard hovercraft Moytel was recently purchased to replace the aging hover- Moytel, Coast Guard inshore rescue boats Sea Island One and craft Penac. It is a $25-million craft, built in England, that 506, a radio operator from Marine Communications and reaches speeds of up to 55 knots. Moytel will serve primarily Traffic Services Victoria and a coordinator from Joint Rescue as a search and rescue vessel and it is particularly vital for Coordination Centre Victoria. The crews met in Gibsons for use over the sand flats at Vancouver airport in the event of a

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downed flight. Stationed at Sea Island in the south arm of the Fraser River, it services the majority of the waters in and around Georgia Strait. It is crewed by a team of six to eight and may include four divers able to reach depths of 130 feet with umbilicals. Interestingly, the bow of the hovercraft is a ramp that enables it to transport emergency equipment or vehicles. (Note: If you see Moytel on the water, feel free to hail them and ask for a tour, but be cautious about approaching as they may have divers in the water and they don’t throw the divers lines while the propellers are running. The general boating public should be discouraged from following hovercrafts as they on occasion navigate in only inches of water.) After touring Moytel, the training exercise began. The scenario simulated an incident in which four kayakers were circumnavigating Bowyer Island and were late to check in. Moytel was assigned on-scene commander and search patterns were delegated to the pod. Within 20 minutes, two kayakers were found in good condition ashore. Shortly after, the other two were pulled from the water and first aid was administered. The exercise was excellent practice, giving crews an opportunity to work together as a team to efficiently search for and save lives at sea.

Compass 32 October 2015 FINAL WORD World SAR Conference Informs and Inspires

By Greg Miller, Vice President, RCM-SAR A trip to the World Maritime Rescue Congress drives home the importance of learning from like organizations.

In June I had the pleasure of attending the World Maritime Rescue Congress hosted by the International Maritime Rescue Federa- tion (IMRF) in Bremerhaven, Germany. The conference is held every four years and this year’s conference was in conjunction with the German Coast Guard’s (DGzRS’s) 150th anni- versary celebration. There were over 200 hundred delegates representing over 40 countries and about 400 people total in attendance. RCM-SAR was considered a major donor this year due to the fact that we hosted one of the IMRF board May 31: Parade of Boats and open house. viewing these great SAR vessels from around meetings back in September 2014 at HMCS We spent the day touring vessels from Ger- the world. There was also a tradeshow with 35 Discovery in Vancouver. As a major sponsor, many, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, marine industry vendors who support search RCM-SAR held two votes for the election of Finland, Norway and Sweden, with over 50 and rescue in Europe. the new IMRF Board of Directors, which also boats on display. The RNLI had one of their June 1– 3: The congress officially began took place at the conference. first dedicated response vessels on display with the opening ceremony and welcome Following is a brief summary of the confer- as well as their brand-new Shannon-class message for the delegates. For the rest of the ence’s key events: lifeboat. It was not difficult to spend the day time, delegates had the option of attending

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one-hour workshops with different keynote speakers. The workshops fit into three over- arching categories: SAR Organization and Management, SAR Coordination and SAR Operations. There were a lot of great ideas and discussion points throughout those meetings. I felt specific workshops like fundraising, com- munication/social media and organizational culture had some great content that will be beneficial to RCM-SAR moving forward. One of the most powerful presentations for me personally was by Andrew Woods of the RNLI. He is the lead on one of the RNLI’s newest programs called Safety: Get On Board. The RNLI is dedicated to improving the internal safety culture of their organization and is undertaking a complete overhaul of their safety management system. It was a very powerful and emotional presentation. June 4 was the final day of the conference which was the IMRF AGM and elections. After three rounds of voting, a new board was elected. This was the third time RCM-SAR has attended the World Maritime Rescue Con- gress and it was very clear to me that being a member of the IMRF is hugely important to the continued growth of our organization. Being my first exposure to an international marine search and rescue event, I was amazed

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at how recognized and respected RCM-SAR that will be put into service very soon. As the understanding each other’s SAR systems can is around the world and very proud of the fact orientation was going on, a crew member of a be. that our Executive Officer Stan Warlow, his German freighter was having an appendicitis I want to thank the RCM-SAR Board of staff and managers over the last few years have attack while the freighter was 300 miles off Governors for allowing me this opportunity, really elevated RCM-SAR to a world-class Vancouver Island. The controller in Bremen as well as the board of the Strait of Georgia organization. was going to be contacting JRCC Victoria Marine Rescue Society for helping fund my I was also able to visit the German Joint to notify them of the situation. It was a very travels. It was truly an amazing trip that will Rescue Coordination Centre in Bremen, strange event to be witnessing, but shows have a positive impact on RCM-SAR. where they also house a new training simulator how important international partnerships and Throughout the conference it was very clear to me that being a member of the IMRF is hugely important to the continued growth of our organization.

Compass 35 October 2015 RESCUE Boat wise and street smart—the new line of high quality RCM-SAR apparel brings it all together!

Our new partner, Out of the Blue Designs, offers RCM-SAR members a new and improved selection of high quality branded apparel plus much faster delivery times.

From business casual to tough foul weather gear, you will look great in RCM-SAR clothing. Check out our new catalog and watch for new products and an online ordering tool soon.

To order today, just fill out the form at the back of the catalog and email it to [email protected].

Orders will go directly to Out of the Blue Designs.

RESCUE

If you would like to support RCM-SAR, please send your donation and the form below to: Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue 6040 East Sooke Road, Sooke BC V9Z 0Z7 Thank you for helping save lives on the water!

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