Electric Bicycles are generally used by consumers as a more efficient mode of transportation, but the Central Okanagan Search and Rescue leverage the technology to more efficiently offer e-bike aid and assistance. Armed with Giant e-mountain bikes, volunteers working with the Central Okanagan Search and Rescue will utilize the e-bikes in both urban and backcountry rescue operations. According to Brian Stainsby, COSAR e-bike team coordinator, with e-bike "We can get to an injured subject faster and render aid quicker."
The bikes used for the e-bike aid and assistance were paid for in part by the B.C. Search and Rescue Association and through fundraising. The e-bikes used by Central Okanagan Search and Rescue offer a 500-watt pedal assist motor. The decision to use e-bikes came as they are significantly quieter than quad bikes or motorcycles allowing rescue workers to use sound search techniques.
Image Credit: Giant Bikes
What Makes This Trend Stand Out
- E-bike Rescue Teams
- Using electric bikes for search and rescue offers more efficient and quieter aid and assistance.
- Pedal Assist Motors
- Incorporating high watt pedal assist motors in rescue operations enables faster response time and aid.
- Fundraising for Community Services
- Fundraising for community services can lead to disruptive innovation opportunities and technology investments such as e-bikes.
Sectors Adopting This
- Search and Rescue
- Electric bikes are transforming search and rescue operations.
- Outdoor Recreation
- The use of e-bikes in rescue operations is applicable to the outdoor recreation industry.
- Non-profit Organizations
- The success of fundraising initiatives can enable technological investments for non-profit organizations.
