Helly Hansen to supply Squamish Search and Rescue with apparel

Operating in the Outdoor Recreation Capital of Canada, SSAR is a community-based organization comprised of a diverse group of volunteers. SSAR performs swiftwater, high-alpine avalanche, mountaineering, rock climbing and mountain bike rescues.

With an imposing response area extending from Porteau Cove to the southern boundary of Whistler and Squamish Valley, the SSAR team is exposed to backcountry conditions with a high potential for incidence.Inspired by SSAR’s rugged and potentially hostile terrain, Helly Hansen will be outfitting the team in a full uniform kit that includes outerwear, midlayer, baselayer, accessories and footwear.

Increasing knowledge of SSAR globally

But outfitting SSAR is only the starting point for this partnership. In working with the rescue team, Helly Hansen wishes to increase visibility and knowledge of SSAR globally. Cindy Welsh, Director of SSAR, said: “We chose Helly Hansen not only for the performance of their apparel but, like us, they are committed to ongoing education around safety and preparedness in the mountain environment globally.”

Local efforts for this partnership will focus on increasing education and awareness surrounding mountain safety, all while amplifying SSAR’s mission of ensuring people recreate safely.

Meanwhile, AUK Protection has won the procurement by Swedish Air Ambulance for a contract to supply a complete apparel system for their helicopter crews.