Photo: SSAR Year in Review

If you’ve been thinking about joining a search and rescue team but haven’t committed yet, now is your chance to apply.

Saskatoon Search and Rescue is hosting an intake in late January, accepting applications of members to add to the team.

Katie Willie with the SSAR says they’re looking for people who aren’t afraid to try a type of volunteer work that is very different from all the rest.

“We’re looking for people who are willing to join a really involved, passionate, caring team; that enjoy time outdoors; that want to give back to the community in a very impactful, meaningful, and tangible way.”

In 2025, the group of about 40 members responded to 22 missing person activations, one evidence search, and two deployments to support the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency. Many of the missing person deployments were activated through the SSAR’s Project Lifesaver program, which equips individuals prone to wandering with a frequency-emitting bracelet. The SSAR has 46 bracelets deployed in the community, with six new ones being added this year thanks to a donation from the Union of Safety and Justice Employees.

2025 was also the first year the team was deployed out of province, with five members sent to the Crowsnest Pass to search for a six-year-old boy.

“Getting to be a part of such a large operation is something that we haven’t done before, and for a bunch of SSAR volunteers for the prairies, the mountains definitely were a change for the searchers out there.”

With support from donors, the SSAR was also able to purchase a new trailer, allowing for the carriage or more gear and a better power supply.