Ground search and rescue

The New Brunswick Ground Search and Rescue Association (NBGSARA) represents over 300 operational members across the province who assist police and other agencies in locating and rescuing missing persons. From wilderness searches to urban incidents, volunteers are ready to respond, day or night, in any season and often under challenging conditions. Members are tasked to support within New Brunswick, or in rare circumstances, other provinces when assisting with disaster response like evacuations due to wildfire or long power outages from wind and ice storms. Many members are specifically trained for medical response, K9 search, drone operations and rope rescue.

The association and its team are independent, non-profit organizations that work closely with law enforcement, emergency services and public agencies. With the support of communities, donors and the tireless efforts of volunteers.

Beyond emergency response, teams deliver public education through programs like AdventureSmart, support vulnerable individuals through Project Lifesaver and more. 

Ground search and rescue volunteers in New Brunswick are not paid. They train for hundreds of hours, maintain equipment and are prepared to be outdoors at any time.

The association is always looking for new members, people who want to give back, work as part of a team and make a real impact. If you’re interested in volunteering with a local ground search and rescue team or want to learn more about how you can support the teams, visit sarnbres.ca/join or contact your local ground search and rescue group.

Outside of operational roles, teams also require a wide range of support roles to function including public relations, fundraising, equipment and vehicle maintenance, training and administration.