Ground search and rescue teams are able to respond faster.
A new province-wide dispatch system is able to send requests for help to every member of a team, or several teams, at one time.
The $69,000 cost of the dispatch system was shared among the federal government, the province and volunteers.
Corey Burke, president of the Yarmouth County Ground Search Team, says it was money well spent.
“It’s very good news. It will allow us to respond much faster to an emergency situation. everybody will be notified at the same time.”
Previously 23 search and rescue teams each had their own dispatch system and contact list to call members individually when needed.
The new system is located at the provincial Shubenacadie Radio Operations Centre.
According to Nova Scotia’s Emergency Management Office, more than 1300 volunteer ground search and rescue members respond to about 50 lost person searches each year.
Glorious day in Shubenacadie. DNR staff shine up new helicopter as added bonus for those attending Ground Search and Rescue announcement. pic.twitter.com/wyKgH75fwj
— Nova Scotia EMO (@nsemo) April 12, 2017
