Guardian Marine Rescue Seeks New Volunteers to Bolster Essex County Water Safety

By Staff Reporter

 

Guardian Marine Rescue is calling on community members to step forward as volunteer Search and Rescue crew members for its Colchester and Belle River units, ahead of the busy 2026 boating season.

As a dedicated volunteer branch of the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary, Guardian Marine Rescue plays a critical role in safeguarding boaters on Lake Erie, Lake St. Clair, and the Detroit River. Crews are regularly dispatched to emergencies, assist disabled vessels, and work tirelessly to keep Essex County’s waterways safe.

 

With emergency response times directly tied to volunteer availability, maintaining fully staffed teams at both Colchester and Belle River is a top priority. “Fast response on the water depends on having trained, reliable volunteers ready to respond,” explained Tyler Burniston, Coxswain with Guardian Marine Rescue. “We are seeking local individuals who are dependable and committed. The most important trait is a willingness to learn and be part of a team that serves their community.”

 

Volunteers receive comprehensive training in vessel operations, navigation, radio communications, and emergency response, gaining invaluable hands-on experience as part of a coordinated rescue effort. In addition to technical skills, many volunteers develop greater confidence, leadership, and teamwork—qualities that benefit them both on and off the water.

 

No prior experience in search and rescue is required. Applicants must live locally, be able to respond from either the Colchester or Belle River stations, and hold a valid Pleasure Craft Operator Card.

 

“Things can change in a matter of seconds on the water. Knowing that we have a trained crew ready to respond quickly reinforces how important our role is in protecting the community,” said crew member Holly Lucier.

 

Applications for volunteer crew positions are open now, with limited spots available. To learn more or to apply, visit https://GuardianMarineRescue.ca/volunteer. Those unable to join as crew can also support the mission through donations at https://GuardianMarineRescue.ca. Applications close on February 28, 2026.