Training Opportunities

At YKSAR, we offer a range of training opportunities to help community members and Search and Rescue professionals develop essential skills. Explore the following courses to find one that’s right for you:

Introductory Training for New YKSAR Members

Basic Searcher Course

If you’re interested in joining YKSAR, this introductory course, typically run every spring and fall, provides the foundational knowledge needed to start your Search and Rescue journey.

  • Description: Covers search techniques, safety, and basic navigation skills.
  • Training Schedule:
    • Part 1 – Classroom Session:
      • Dates: October 17-19, 2025
    • Part 2 – Field Session:
      • Dates: October 24-26, 2025 (Overnight)

For more information and to register, visit the Basic Searcher Course page.

Registration deadline for the next course is October 8, 2025. Any registrations received after this date will need to be resubmitted for the spring session in 2026 (dates to be confirmed).

Advanced Training for YKSAR Members

These sessions are open to YKSAR members who have completed their Basic Searcher course and whose membership is in good standing. Further information and course registrations can be found on the secure YKSAR Members’ Information page.

  • Introductory GPSr course
  • Lost Person Behaviour
  • Incident Command System
  • Baby, It’s Cold Outside
  • Winter Orientation
  • Base Camp Setup – Frostbite 55
  • Wilderness First Aid

Open to the Public

These sessions are open to anyone interested in learning about Search and Rescue or improving their outdoor safety skills.

Baby, It’s Cold Outside (BICO)

  • Description: Learn cold weather survival skills in this comprehensive online course.
  • Details: Self-paced; certificate awarded upon completion; $55 fee
  • Register: Playsafe

Incident Command System (ICS)

ICS 100: Introduction to ICS

  • Description: introduces ICS and provides the foundation for higher level ICS training. This course describes the history, features and principles, and organizational structure of the Incident Command System.
  • Details: Self-paced online course (2-4 hours); $25 fee
  • Register: ICS Canada

ICS 200: Basic Incident Command

  • Description: defines the unique qualities of ICS as an event or incident management system. This course focuses on the management of single resources. I-200 provides training for personnel who are likely to assume a supervisory position within the ICS.
  • Details: Instructor-led course; length and cost vary by agency.
  • Pre-requisite: ICS 100
  • Register: A list of ICS 200 training providers can be found through ICS Canada.

Note: All public training sessions are available at the participant’s expense.