A special appearance from the Royal Canadian Air Forces' 442 Squadron Cormorant helicopter headlined an educational and family-friendly Regional District of Okanagan-Simikameen event in Penticton on Saturday (May 31).
The regional district brought its Emergency Services Show and Shine to Okanagan Lake Park from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
RCMP officers and firefighters from across the region 香蕉视频直播� as well as search and rescue crews, BC Emergency Health Services, Salvation Army, Red Cross and Animal Lifeline Emergency Response Team, among others 香蕉视频直播� gave the public an up-close and interactive look at the work they do every day.
"It's absolutely amazing to see all of the groups within the South Okanagan and Similkameen supporting this," said Sean Vaisler, manager of emergency services at the RDOS.
"It's great for the emergency services and volunteers to promote all of the good stuff they do, and show the citizens all the amazing equipment they have and how they respond to emergencies."
At 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., those in attendance were treated to live demonstrations over Okanagan Lake from the Comox-based 442 Squadron Cormorant helicopter, which is known for its search and rescue capabilities.
According to the Canadian Armed Forces' website, the helicopter helped rescue mountain climbers, lost hikers, ship crews, and more.
"This was part of a training mission today," Vaisler said of the live demonstration. "We're happy to have them here."
The event also featured hands-on activities and kids' games. Many of Saturday's attendees were seen climbing up into the front seat of an RCMP cruiser or fire truck.
Vaiser said he's looking forward to seeing Saturday become the start of a new tradition across the region.
"I hope this becomes an annual event," he said. "It's an opportunity for all the groups to get out to the public and show them the services they offer."
