Myth 3: You have to pay for Rescue
You do not have to pay to be rescued in British Columbia, and we know of no jurisdiction in Canada where you have to pay.
This myth has also almost certainly caused harm. If someone thinks they will be charged, they might not call for help. Any delay in activating Search and Rescue can result in the missing person being more difficult to find. A delay can turn a simple search in the daylight into a difficult night time rescue. A delay can turn a short rescue into a challenging, expensive (for the taxpayer) and risky (for the searcher) job.
If you know you are lost, do not hesitate to call for rescue. It’s free, and calling early makes our job faster, easier and safer.
Read the official position of the BC Search and Rescue Assocation (BCSARA) on not charging for rescue.