Guardian Marine Rescue

Volunteer Expectations

All positions within Guardian Marine Rescue are volunteer positions. There is no financial compensation for time, training, or callouts.

As a volunteer with Guardian Marine Rescue (GMR), you are joining a team that operates in dynamic, high-risk environments and relies on trust, reliability, and professionalism. Our ability to serve the community safely depends on every member meeting the expectations outlined below.

These standards apply to all volunteers and help ensure fairness, accountability, and operational readiness.

1. Professional Conduct

  • Treat the public, fellow crew members, and partner agencies with respect at all times.

  • Represent Guardian Marine Rescue in a positive and professional manner, both in person and online.

2. Training & Participation

  • Participate in regular training to maintain operational readiness.

  • SAR crew members are expected to complete a minimum of 25 hours of sea training per season and maintain an average annual commitment of 60 to 80 hours, including training, calls, events, and standby.

3. Reliability & Follow-Through

  • Respond promptly to messages, scheduling requests, and operational communications.

  • Attend scheduled training, calls, and events whenever available.

  • Repeated failure to respond, attend, or follow through on commitments may result in probation or removal.

4. Availability & Response Readiness

  • Accurately update availability using the SMS system.

  • Maintain the ability to respond to your assigned marina within the required response-time standards.

  • Consistent availability and reliable attendance are essential to team safety and operational effectiveness.

5. Communication & Systems

  • Maintain reliable access to required communication tools, including Signal, email, and, when applicable, Microsoft Teams.

  • Ensure contact information is kept up to date.

6. Policies, Safety & Compliance

  • Follow all GMR policies, operational procedures, and safety guidelines.

  • Safety and crew readiness must take priority over personal convenience or preference.

  • Maintain all required certifications for your role, including Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC), Restricted Operator Certificate (ROC-M), and Standard First Aid & CPR.

7. Background Screening

  • Complete a Vulnerable Sector Check as a condition of membership and every two years thereafter.

8. Confidentiality

  • Treat all operational, personal, and sensitive information with discretion and confidentiality.

9. Fundraising & Community Engagement

  • Support organizational fundraising efforts and public events when requested.

  • Act as an ambassador for Guardian Marine Rescue within the community.

10. Membership Review

  • Membership is reviewed annually and is contingent on ongoing participation, professionalism, and adherence to these expectations.

  • Failure to meet these standards may result in probation or removal at the discretion of the Board.