In Nunavut, Search and Rescue services are provided by a number of different organizations.  Generally, ground searches are handled by community volunteers, co-ordinated by the Government of Nunavut through local search committees.  These often work with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, local GN wildlife officers and members of the Canadian Rangers.

Air searches are generally handled by the Canadian Armed Forces, through the

Joint Rescue Control Centres in Halifax, Nova Scotia and Trenton, Ontario.  The military often calls on volunteers from the Civil Air Search and Rescue Association as first search responders when handling reports of downed or overdue aircraft.  CASARA Nunavut also participates in searches for overdue hunters and boaters.  CASARA Nunavut spotters travel on chartered Twin Otter or other local commercial aircraft, and can assist as spotters on Royal Canadian Air Force Hercules aircraft when those are deployed for a search in Nunavut.

During the summer months, the Canadian Coast Guard also participates in search and rescue work.

Depending on the circumstances, a combination of these various resources may be used. During large scale searches, all of these resources can be activated.

For pilots flying private aircraft in Canada's Eastern Arctic, it is important to remember that distances are vast, and the climate can be unforgiving.  It is extremely important that flights carry survival gear, clothing suitable to the conditions and time of year, and full immersion floater suits for flights over water.

Even in the "best case" scenarios, it can take a long time to find and rescue people in this huge territory.  So in addition to the ELT on your plane, bringing a satellite phone, and other signaling equipment is highly recommended.  Be prepared.

Contact information:

RCMP Nunavut detachments

Joint Rescue Control Centre Halifax (Canadian Armed Forces)

Joint Rescue Control Centre Trenton (Canadian Armed Forces)

CASARA Nunavut contact information

CASARA National

Nunavut Emergency Management

National Search and Rescue Secretariat