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Search and rescue training
Jason removing his driveshaft
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Derek Montgomery and Megan Brodeur
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Derek Montgomery and Megan Brodeur
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Derek Montgomery and Megan Brodeur
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Derek Montgomery and Megan Brodeur
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Derek Montgomery and Megan Brodeur
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Derek Montgomery and Megan Brodeur
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Derek Montgomery and Megan Brodeur
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Derek Montgomery and Megan Brodeur
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Derek Montgomery and Megan Brodeur
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Derek Montgomery and Megan Brodeur
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Derek Montgomery and Megan Brodeur
By Bryan Irons
If you've been keeping up with 4WDrive, and I hope you have, you might remember a Search and Rescue run in the Okanagan in 2011. It worked out so well last time that we were asked to do another trail ride and training event with the Central Okanagan Search and Rescue group.
Once the “who, what, when, where, and why's” were all taken care of, a request to the SAR members to sign up for the run was started. We all met up at COSAR's headquarters where they graciously handed out VHF radios for us to use. We had a group meeting about where we were going and what was to be expected for the day ahead. To the trail head we went! Toyota Tacos, Ford Rangers, and Jeeps of all types and sizes met at the trail head to air down. While doing so, 4wheelbc.com talked about our trip subject... tire pressure. Do's, don’ts and basic guidelines were discussed.
Trying to incorporate rocks, mud, dirt, and fire roads into one run that is "stocker passable" was a pretty tall request for the 4wheelbc.com crew, but I think we pulled it off. Our chosen path had some optional obstacles to tackle for the larger rigs in the group. The plan was to let the COSAR members drive part of the trail at "street" pressure and then air down so they could feel the difference themselves. Before we even made the half way mark, we had aired everyone down. Smiles and confidence grew from there. Most were shocked with the difference in traction.
We stopped at a trail dubbed "halfpipe" by one of our members. The 4wheelbc.com crew took turns giving rides up the trail during the lunch break. This trail, after all, is NOT one of the stock friendly sections and has a bypass. After our shenanigans, eating and showing off, we continued on to the end of our trail.
We aired up using many different types and sizes of compressors and explained the pros and cons of each, as well as air down tools and tire repair kits that we carry. We handed out door prizes graciously donated to us by both Gorman Bros. Lumber and AG Outdoor Superstore. Thanks for the support.
Although we had a good day of fun in the woods, it's nice to know that some of the tips we gave that day may lead to COSAR helping out someone in need. If that's not reason enough to do this again, I don't know what is. Contact your local Search and Rescue group and see if you, too, can help save a life.