Whistler Outdoor Festival: Backcountry Rescue

What happens when you call SAR?

Join Extremely Canadian and Whistler Search and Rescue for an engaging afternoon exploring what happens when a day in the backcountry doesn’t go according to plan. This interactive session brings SAR members and the outdoor community together to share real-world experiences, practical knowledge, and the realities of a search and rescue response.

Together, we’ll explore common scenarios, what to expect when you need to call SAR, and how you can prepare yourself and your group for a potential rescue. You’ll also get hands-on with the process of preparing someone for extraction and learn how thoughtful preparation can make a difference when things go wrong.

This is an interactive afternoon—not a sit-and-listen presentation. Expect group discussions, scenarios, problem-solving, and plenty of opportunities to ask questions, share ideas, and learn from the people who respond when help is needed.