SARVAC’s Humanitarian Workforce (HWF) Program is now active, with the successful mobilization of HWF responders to support wildfire response efforts in Manitoba.
✅ 14 trained volunteers from the Ontario Search and Rescue Volunteer Association (OSARVA) and the Search and Rescue Saskatchewan Association of Volunteers (SARSAV) are now on the ground in Winnipeg, following a Greenlight status issued this past weekend. This initial deployment includes the first rotation of HWF personnel, as well as the Portable Mobile Wash Team (PMWT).
🧰 All equipment has arrived in Winnipeg.
On the Ground: Supporting Evacuees
Local Ground Search and Rescue (GSAR) volunteers from the Winnipeg Search and Rescue Association continue providing vital support at the evacuee shelter at the University of Winnipeg. Their efforts include sorting and distributing donated clothing—an incredible response made possible by the generosity of the community.
Reminder: The Role of GSAR Volunteers
🦺 GSAR volunteers stand ready to assist—whenever and wherever needed—with capabilities that include:
- Search, Rescue, and Recovery
- First Aid
- Incident Management
- Communications
- Geomatics
- Logistics
- Wellness Checks
- Traffic Management
- General Labour Support
Stay tuned for more updates as response operations evolve.
📸 Photo courtesy of Winnipeg Search and Rescue Association