Comox Valley Search and Rescue volunteers balanced emergency callouts and continued training over the weekend, responding to three requests for assistance while other members worked on their emergency-management skills.

Two of the calls involved separate mountain-bike incidents in Cumberland’s trail network on Saturday, October 17. BC Emergency Health Services requested the team’s assistance with both medical rescues.

A third activation followed on Sunday, October 18, when volunteers were called for a search. That response was stood down shortly after it began.

While those responses were underway over the weekend, other Comox Valley members joined Campbell River Search and Rescue for Incident Command System training focused on managing and coordinating emergency operations.

The team says both operational callouts and ongoing training are important parts of maintaining its readiness to respond when people need help.

With fall weather continuing to draw mountain bikers onto local trails, Comox Valley Search and Rescue is also reminding riders to look out for one another. Trail users are encouraged to remain aware of anyone who appears injured or has stopped along a route and may need assistance.

Anyone who calls for emergency help should remain in one location after making contact, provided it is safe to do so. Staying put helps rescuers locate the person more efficiently.

The BC Search and Rescue Association reinforces that message in its information about the Comox Valley team.

“If you require help, call 911 as soon as possible and stay in one location until found,” the association advises.

It also reminds the public that there is no charge for search and rescue, so concerns about cost should not delay a call for assistance.