The busiest week for COSAR
Photo: COSAR
The search and rescue helicopter took off near Chute Lake Lodge on May 17, 2022.
Central Okanagan Search and Rescue was called in six times to assist in rescues during the previous week and included Victory Day.
On Monday, COSAR helped an injured motorcyclist who had crashed into a trail 500 meters from the James Lake Forest Service Highway. The man was taken to BC Ambulance Service paramedics.
On Monday morning, 11 COSAR members were dispatched to help Penticton Search and Rescue search for a lost hiker near Lake Idleback. The person was found around 10:30 a.m.
On Sunday, they responded to Scenic Canyon Regional Park to find a missing hiker, who was found by the RCMP after a brief search.
COSAR also responded to three calls earlier this week:
- On May 17, COSAR rescued an injured hiker near Chute Lake Resort.
- On May 18, COSAR was tasked with finding an 83-year-old person with dementia almost last seen near the center of Kelowna. It was located with the help of the Kelowna RCMP while COSAR responded
- On May 19, Central Okanagan Search and Rescue was tasked with rescuing an injured ATV near the cabin of the Dog House snowmobile.
Search manager Duane Tresnich is concerned about the increase in tasks, but is grateful that most have had satisfactory results.
“Most people are ready. Accidents happen and because people are presenting travel plans, carrying the right equipment and not going out alone, we have had satisfactory results. “
COSAR has responded to 31 tasks in 2022, well below last year’s 106 record.