Comox Valley Search & Rescue’s weekend includes events, training and evacuations

CVSAR was busy with training on Tripple Lake, assisting evacuations, and providing first aid at race

Comox Valley Search & Rescue’s weekend includes events, training and evacuations Published 11:30 am Tuesday, July 14, 2026 The Comox Valley Search & Rescue (CVSAR) team had a busy weekend as they balanced community events, training, and emergency response calls. On July 11, SAR volunteers were at the Devil’s Ladder Ultra, a 50-kilometre race (there were also 30-kilometre and 15-kilometre races).

The volunteers staffed the first aid stations throughout the event. “This annual event is one of our largest fundraisers and provides valuable opportunities to build familiarity with the Cumberland trail network, operate our UTVS, and gain hands-on first aid experience,” read a Facebook post from the CVSAR. The members responded to several requests for assistance during the Devil’s Ladder Ultra, including an evacuation of a participant of the 50-kilometre race experiencing a medical emergency.

On the same evening, the Emergency Coordination Centre (ECC) requested CVSAR to assist Arrowsmith Search & Rescue with a medical evacuation of an injured climber in the Horn Lake climbing area. Additionally, the Comox Valley RCMP also requested CVSAR’s assistance. The RCMP asked CVSAR to help locate a hiker near Century Sam Lake in Strathcona Provincial Park whose return was overdue.

The hiker, who underestimated the time required for the route, was quickly located. “Meanwhile, our Mountain Rescue 2 (MR2) team spent the weekend on Triple Peak alongside two mountain guides, practicing advanced mountain rescue skills including snow travel, technical rock movement, and rope work in challenging terrain,” read the post. CVSAR says it was a productive weekend of training, despite the rainy conditions.

“Weekends like this highlight the dedication of our volunteers. Whether supporting community events, responding to emergencies, or building the skills needed for future rescues, our members are always working to keep the community safe,” said the post.