Who is Being Rescued in Canadian National Parks?

Abstract

There has been a growing body of literature reviewing the epidemiology of injuries, illnesses, and search and rescue (SAR) operations in National Parks in the United States. There are 42 National Parks in Canada that experienced over 12 million visitors in 2010. Little research has been published to date on SAR trends in Canadian National Parks. To review the current literature regarding SAR operations in Canadian National Parks and assess the need for further research in this area. Articles in the MEDLINE database were identified that analyzed SAR operations or injury and illnesses occurring in Canadian National Parks. The Parks Canada website was reviewed for relevant information available to the public regarding safety and SAR operations in National Parks. One peer-reviewed article was identified that analyzed the epidemiology of SAR operations in Banff, Yoho, and Kootenay National Parks. No further relevant articles were found. From 1994 to 1998, Parks Canada reported a yearly average of 1400 safety incidents in National Parks. Pacific Rim National Park Reserve (PRNPR) is reported to experience the most SAR operations from all National Parks, with the West Coast Trail accounting for 80 to 100 incidents annually. There were 20 accident reports available from the 7 Mountain National Parks in 2010, with 4 self-reported “near-miss” accidents. A paucity of data exists regarding SAR operations in Canadian National Parks. Epidemiological studies conducted in the United States may not be extrapolated to Canada due to possible differences in climate, activity rates, and safety programs. A recent study of US National Parks demonstrated the most common SAR environment was the mountain environment, whereas in Canada it is reported that PRNPR, a coastal environment, experiences the highest number of SAR operations yearly. Further research into these incidents is needed before critical analysis and improvement of prevention strategies targeting high-risk areas and activities can be made.