Through the course, anchored in the Grade 11 and 12 Secondary Geography curriculum, students learn engage in a combination of classroom learning and hands-on training. In the classroom, students learn about spatial technologies, emergency management systems, and even earn their Transport Canada Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) certification. Taught by Alex Shillinglaw and Thomas McLean, the course immerses students in SAR operations, where they apply their classroom knowledge to realistic emergency situations.
Putting Theory into Practice
Students begin by forming an Incident Command System (ICS), where roles are divided based on function. These areas include command, safety, operations, planning, and logistics—key elements in any successful SAR operation. A typical Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX) starts with a briefing that provides background on the missing individual(s), the forecasted weather, and any clues that could help narrow the search.
One of the critical components of the training is the use of Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and RPAS technology. The planning section works closely with GIS technicians to create detailed maps that track the search progress. Using ArcGIS, an industry-standard mapping software, students analyze data, like the missing person’s last known location and potential travel routes. For example, students recently used estimated ATV driving speeds to predict how far a missing rider might have traveled, helping to target search areas more effectively.
Advanced Technology Meets Hands-On Training
The RPAS section is equipped with a DJI M30T drone capable of capturing both zoom and thermal imagery during searches. This technology allows students to search large areas quickly, with the drone relaying real-time information back to the Incident Command Post. In addition to thermal imaging, the drone can track the movements of ground teams, ensuring better coordination and safety.
The Operations section, which is responsible for carrying out the search tasks, involves students using orienteering skills to navigate through difficult terrain, along with medical and survival techniques to assist injured or lost individuals. The training also covers various search patterns designed to maximize the chances of finding a missing person or discovering important clues.
Although the program is still in its early stages, it has already set the foundation for creating a mission-ready SAR team. Graduates of the program will be able to return to the Timiskaming District after post-secondary education and further hone their skills in real SAR operations, working alongside emergency professionals in the region.
Acknowledgments
The students of Timiskaming District Secondary School's SAR program would like to extend their thanks to several key partners, community supporters and subject matter experts who have shared their knowledge with the students.
Introduction to G.I.S. Dual Credit Partnership with Northern College, Instructors David Barton and Natasha Macdonald
Hudson Township: Municipal Office and Fire Department, Dana and Laurie McLean, Jim Brookfield, Camp Temiskaming, Kara and Curtis Johnston, Steve McLean
City of Temiskaming Shores: Makinna Givens, Jeremie Latour, Brad Hearn, Jocelyn Plante, Owen Norris, Isaiah Kotyc, Sam Koistinen
District of Timiskaming Emergency Medical Services: Austin Quenneville, Trevor Neddo, Dean Franks, Tristin Gervais, Emily Knight, Sophie Mackewn
Ontario Provincial Police: Cst. Joel Plante, Rob Shillinglaw (ret), Cst. Ray Fortin, Search Manager Mike Larocque, Sgt. Tom Saville (Bear Island Police)
Canadian Armed Forces / CASARA: MCpl. Troy Oliver, Bob Ormsby, Corrine Nelson
Timiskaming District Secondary School: Esther Wabie, Jenna Gilbert, Caitlin Campbell, Jill Plaunt, Nikki Cambridge, Makayla Godmaire, Katie Kacur, Tekzone ICT Class, Grace Johnston, Jason Hewett, Dale Warring
Timiskaming First Nations / Kiwetin Elementary School: Mike Beaupre, Ashley Laferriere, Heather Pollock, Justin Polson, Melissa Gill
Ontario Parks / MNRF Fire: Dave Ward, Ellie Ellsworth, Lyle Lecarte, Courtney Stevenson