The first training session of the Huron and Area Search and Rescue Service brought out 40 volunteers to the Hullet Provincial Wildlife Area this weekend.
The not-for-profit group was created in 2018 to provide professional, civilian volunteer ground-based and marine search and rescue.
Interim Administrative Commander Patrick Armstrong said he was pleased with the turnout as volunteers came from as far away as Kincardine to the north and Kitchener and the Sarnia area towards the south.
Armstrong said Saturday was about completing certification which will be completed in April.
At that time, volunteers would be ready to be called out in a search and rescue situation.
Saturday's training involved learning map and compass skills.