How do I become a member of the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary?

There are two main categories of CCGA membership: Search and Rescue (SAR) duties and Boating safety activities. All members are required to have Standard First Aid training with CPR Level C, Restricted Radio Operator Certification, and a Pleasure Craft Operator Competency Card.

Members interested in volunteering as SAR crew shouldbe able to meet the physical conditions of long hours on the water in rough conditions, be willing to be on call, and live within a 15 minute call-out range from the Government Dock in Sooke.

How much time would be required of me?

The call rotation is based on how many people are in your unit. If you feel you are interested enough to call for more information, this would be a question to ask the unit leader of the unit you'd belong to. Boating safety events are more concentrated during the summer months, but SAR incidents happen all year, so it will also depend on how you want to volunteer.

Do I have to have a boat to join?

No, Sooke has a 30 foot Titan RHIB relief vessel that we use for all our operations.

Can I be involved without having to be on call?

Yes, there are units specifically dedicated to boating safety education such as visiting schools, setting up mall displays, and performing pleasure craft courtesy checks for the owners of pleasure craft. Units that combine SAR and Boating Safety activities almost always need and appreciate having more hands around to help with administrative and educational tasks. As well, some units have societies attached to them. These societies are active in fundraising and other events. It is possible that you could be involved in that capacity.

How old do I have to be to join?

• Junior Membership : 13-18 years
• General Membership: over 19 years

I have a boat that I'd like to lend for use in SAR activities. Can this be done?

To answer this question, you will have to consult your Unit Leader and the CCGA-P Director of Search and Rescue to see whether another SAR resource is required in your area, and whether your vessel would be an appropriate resource for the area. In most cases, sailing vessels would not be acceptable as SAR resources. You would be required to join as a regular member in order to offer the services of your vessel.

Is the CCGA-P part of the Canadian Coast Guard?

The Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary - Pacific was formed in 1978 to provide volunteer marine Search and Rescue support to the regular Canadian Coast Guard. The Auxiliary is a totally separate, independently incorporated volunteer organization. We do receive some funding assistance from the federal government in order cover insurance and fuel used during SAR duties, but it is a severely limited budget and does not cover the greater need for training and equipment.

Is the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary-Pacific a national organization?

The Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary-Pacific is part of the national organization called the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary (National). However, each region in the natiuonal organization functions in an autonomous manner within general guidelines set out by National. There are five Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary regions, as follows: Pacific; Central and Arctic (Great Lakes and northern coastlines); Quebec (St. Laurence seaway); Maritimes (East Coast - except Newfoundland); and Newfoundland.

Can I contribute to the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary-Pacific?

Most definitely. Please click the "How to Donate" button on this website. Financial and in-kind donations are both useful to our volunteer work. Please note: all contributions to the CCGA-P over $20 receive a tax deductible receipt.