Page 38 - Giv'er Miramichi Magazine - Christmas-Winter Giver 2024

Miramichi Ground Search and Rescue

Becoming the Training Center for NB

By Paulette Arsenault

Miramichi Ground Search and Rescue (MGSAR) stands
as an important pillar in the community, offering vital
assistance in locating and rescuing individuals in distress.
Recognizing its strengths and strategic location, there's an
initiative to establish MGSAR as the primary training center
for all New Brunswick and PEI.
Why Miramichi? - The choice of Miramichi as the
central training hub is rooted in several factors. Firstly, its
strategic geographic location makes it accessible to various
parts of New Brunswick, facilitating easy travel for trainees
from across the provinces. The area boasts a diverse
landscape, offering a realistic training ground that mirrors
the varied terrains rescuers might encounter in real-life
scenarios—from dense forests to rugged coastlines. encompasses a wide range of scenarios, from basic
Moreover, MGSAR already possesses a solid foundation of navigation and first aid to advanced rescue techniques and
experience and expertise. The team’s proven track record response.
in successful search and rescue missions has earned them a Establishing the training center in Miramichi creates job
reputation for excellence. Leveraging this expertise to train opportunities by stimulating the local economy and
others ensures that best practices and advanced techniques promotes Miramichi as a hub of excellence in emergency
are disseminated throughout New Brunswick’s search and services. The presence of a training center also fosters a
rescue operations. culture of safety and preparedness within the community.
Establishing the training center here involves upgrading While the initiative is promising, it does come with
and expanding current facilities to accommodate the challenges. Securing funding for the infrastructure upgrades
training programs. This includes having dedicated and operational costs is paramount. Additionally, recruiting
classrooms, simulation environments, and acquiring and retaining qualified instructors who can deliver the
equipment to provide hands-on training. Such infrastructure training programs effectively is essential. Addressing these
is crucial to simulate real-life search and rescue situations, challenges requires a collaborative effort between the
offering a realistic and immersive learning experience. government, local businesses, and the community.
A centralized training center allows for the development Miramichi Ground Search and Rescue membership is
and implementation of standardized training programs. composed exclusively of volunteers, women and men of all
This consistency ensures that all GSAR personnel across NB ages. MGSAR is always looking for new recruits, if you are
and PEI receive the same high-quality education and interested, please contact us at: join@mgsar.ca
preparation. Trainees will benefit from a curriculum that

38 www.GiverMiramichi.com Christmas 2024