Shuswap Lifeboat Society

RCMSAR 106 (SHUSWAP) is a volunteer marine Search and Rescue organization dedicated to saving lives on Shuswap and Mara Lakes 24/7, 365 days of the year. We are a vital component of the emergency response network in the Shuswap and work alongside other organizations to “save lives on the water”. In addition to marine search and rescue, we provide boating safety education for children and adults throughout the Shuswap region. Our crew members train to the standards established by the Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue program. Our team is trained in basic seamanship, first aid, navigation, helmsman and rescue skills. Coxswains (vessel captains) are further trained with operational leadership and management skills, including advanced charting, use of radar in restricted visibility conditions, and vessel handling in extreme weather conditions. Our training occurs here in the Shuswap and the RCMSAR HQ Training Centre in Sooke, BC. Station 106 crews can bring displays about water and boating safety to many public events across the region including health and safety fairs, a fire department day, or community day. Bobbie the Safety Boat goes to school visiting grade 2 and 3 students. They are introduced to what our volunteers do to keep people safe on the water. The program emphasizes 6 Water Safety Rules. “Kids Don’t Float” kiosks have loaner PFDs (Personal Flotation Devices) for children to use while boating or swimming. The kiosks are located at boat launches and beaches around Shuswap, Mara and Little Shuswap Lakes.