Canadian Forces begin SAREX 2012

The Canadian Forces have begun the annual national search and rescue exercise (SAREX) 2012, at Val-d’Or, Quebec, Canada, aimed at enhancing interoperability and mission readiness.

During the five-day exercise, the search and rescue (SAR) units from Canada will engage in training scenarios to test their medical, search, rescue, parachute accuracy skills with other participating units.

The SAREX 2012 involves national and provincial agencies including the Civil Air Search and Rescue Association, Sauvetage et recherche aérienne du Québec, Sûreté du Québec, and the Canadian Coast Guard.

Canadian National Defence minister Peter MacKay said, "Working with the RCMP, the Canadian Coast Guard, and a network of partners, they do it all for the safety and security of others."

Three simulated scenarios will be conducted during the drill which includes injured climbers in Aiguebelle Provincial Park, a crew aboard a drifting vessel on fire on Lake Preissac and a reported overdue aircraft after dark.

Royal Canadian Air Force commander lieutenant-general André Deschamps said, "Providing immediate SAR response to Canadians is a national priority, which makes it critical that SAR units conduct realistic training."

"SAREX 2012 is intended to provide excellent training while contributing to public awareness and interoperability with provincial and national agencies," Deschamps added.

The exercise also involves training pilots, flight engineers, search and rescue technicians, load masters, air combat systems officers and maintenance personnel.

The drill is scheduled to take place from 16-22 September 2012.