How Search and Rescue Operations Work on Lake Ontario:
A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Toronto Search and Rescue - Marine
When the call goes out that someone is in trouble on Lake Ontario, the response is swift, coordinated, and multi-agency. Boaters may only see the flashing lights of approaching rescue boats or hear the distant thrum of a helicopter — but behind every marine rescue is a highly organized web of communication, logistics, and teamwork. At the heart of many of these responses in and around Toronto harbour is Toronto Search and Rescue - Marine (T-SAR), Unit 535 of the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary (CCGA).
We'll break down how search and rescue (SAR) operations work on Lake Ontario — and highlight the vital role our team plays in saving lives on the water.
Who Responds When Trouble Strikes on Lake Ontario?
Lake Ontario is one of the busiest inland waterways in Canada. From commercial shipping lanes and recreational boaters to paddlers and anglers, its waters serve many — and when emergencies arise, multiple agencies may respond:
1. Toronto Search and Rescue Marine (T-SAR)
Our unit is a volunteer-run, professionally trained marine rescue team operating under the umbrella of the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary. Based in Toronto, T-SAR provides on-water SAR support and rapid response to distress calls in coordination with national and regional partners.
We operate under a strict regimen of year-round training and follow established protocols to ensure high standards of safety, navigation, first aid, and search techniques. Our vessel, T-SAR 2, is fully equipped for emergency response and medical support.
The CCG is the federal authority responsible for marine search and rescue in Canadian waters. On Lake Ontario, CCG assets are strategically stationed — including at the vital Kingston base — but they often rely on local units like ours due to the vastness of the lake and the importance of quick response.
CCG provides operational oversight and works directly with the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) Trenton to coordinate all maritime and aeronautical rescues in the region.
3. Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) Trenton
Based in Trenton, Ontario, JRCC is a 24/7 operations hub staffed by trained search and rescue coordinators from the Royal Canadian Air Force and Canadian Coast Guard. When a mayday or distress call is received, JRCC Trenton determines the nature of the emergency and dispatches the most appropriate units — including auxiliary units like T-SAR — based on proximity, capability, and risk level.
4. Prescott Coast Guard Radio
Prescott CG Radio is the frontline in communication. Operating on marine VHF radio channels, they receive calls from vessels in distress and relay critical information to JRCC and SAR assets. For local boaters, this is often the first point of contact when calling for help. They also broadcast marine weather and safety updates, contributing to accident prevention.
5. Local Police Marine Units
Police marine units, such as the Toronto Police Marine Unit, are an essential part of the SAR ecosystem. They patrol Toronto's waterfront and respond to calls involving criminal investigations, vessel collisions, missing persons, or drowning incidents. They often coordinate with us on scene, especially when operations demand both rescue and law enforcement elements.
6. Local Fire Services
Toronto Fire Services and other nearby municipal fire departments maintain specialized marine response teams capable of deploying fireboats and rescue divers. Their skills in fire suppression, medical response, and technical rescues add depth to any joint operation.
How the SAR System Works: From Distress Call to Rescue
Here's what happens during a typical SAR operation on Lake Ontario:
- A distress call is received — This could come in via VHF radio (channel 16), cell phone (911), or via digital alerts. Prescott CG Radio monitors the VHF frequencies continuously.
- JRCC Trenton evaluates the situation — Based on the type of emergency, weather, location, and available assets, JRCC dispatches units. T-SAR is often deployed when response time is critical and proximity favors our team.
- Units are tasked and launched — T-SAR 2 is deployed from Toronto with a trained crew onboard, coordinating en route with other responders. Real-time updates from JRCC, Prescott, or local police help us navigate directly to the scene.
- On-Scene Coordination — When multiple units arrive, the On-Scene Commander (OSC) is designated to lead operations, ensure safety, and manage roles (e.g., search patterns, casualty care, or towing). Our crews are trained to assume OSC duties when appropriate.
- Rescue, Recovery, and Return — Once the person or vessel is located, the situation is stabilized. Medical treatment is initiated if needed, the vessel may be towed, or evac requested. Communication remains constant with JRCC until the mission is complete.
Our Crew
Toronto Search and Rescue – Marine is made up entirely of volunteers from diverse backgrounds. Our team includes software engineers, students, off-duty paramedics, police officers, firefighters, tradespeople, and marine enthusiasts.
Some join with professional experience in emergency response; others come with a passion to serve. Regardless of background, every volunteer undergoes structured training in marine operations, emergency medical care, vessel handling, and communication protocols.
We believe that training builds confidence—and confident responders save lives.
Training, Readiness, and Commitment
At Toronto Search and Rescue Marine, our volunteers commit hundreds of hours annually to training, maintaining equipment, and staying mission-ready. Our team includes qualified marine navigators, medical responders, and communications officers, many of whom come from professional backgrounds in emergency services.
Our winter training program — conducted in harsh, cold-weather conditions — prepares crews for year-round operations, ensuring we're ready when the call comes in.
How You Can Help
You don't need to be a SAR responder to support marine safety on Lake Ontario:
Always wear a lifejacket
File a float plan
Keep your VHF radio on Channel 16
Check weather forecasts and warnings
Ensure your boat is equipped and seaworthy
And if you're passionate about community service, boating safety, or maritime rescue — consider volunteering with the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary or supporting T-SAR through donations or outreach.
Final Thoughts
Search and rescue on Lake Ontario is more than a job — it's a coordinated community effort. Whether it's the trained volunteers of Toronto Search and Rescue Marine, the professionals at JRCC Trenton, or the vigilant ears of Prescott Coast Guard Radio, every link in the chain matters.
When lives are on the line, teamwork saves lives — and T-SAR is proud to be part of that team.
Support our Mission
Are you passionate about the water and driven to make a difference? Whether you're an experienced boater or just eager to learn, there's a place for you at TSAR. We provide the training—you bring the dedication.
