Team Units

O.V.E.R.T

Serving the Community

OVERT is a new vision in volunteerism.  More closely aligned with the commitment, dedication and professionalism of volunteer fire fighters then with any other program in Ontario.  our vision does not recognize community borders – an OVERT deployment may see volunteers driving hundreds of kilometers, or fly to a different country to assist a community in need.

At the heart of OVERT program are the volunteers.  For the first time, this program brings together varied members of the community and successfully integrates them with significant numbers of police officers, paramedics, fire fighters, military personnel and health care workers.  The Emergency Response Volunteers of OVERT form the foundation of every deployment.  Without the strong group volunteers currently serving with OVERT, the organization could not exist.

once a request for assistance is received, OVERT is capable of responding with a diverse set of resources.  These resources being the team´s various units.

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incident-command

Services: The OVERT Incident Command Unit offers a range of essential services during emergencies and incidents, including:

  1. Incident Coordination: Coordinating response efforts among multiple agencies and organizations to ensure a unified response.
  2. Information Management: Gathering, analyzing, and disseminating critical information to stakeholders and the public.
  3. Resource Deployment: Ensuring the efficient deployment of resources where they are needed most.
  4. Command and Control: Providing on-site leadership and direction during emergencies to maintain order and safety.
  5. Support for Community: Assisting local communities in emergency preparedness and response planning.

O.V.E.R.T

Incident Command

Welcome to the Ontario Volunteer Emergency Response Team’s (OVERT) Incident Command Unit page. Our dedicated team of trained professionals is at the forefront of emergency response efforts across the province of Ontario. The Incident Command Unit (ICU) plays a pivotal role in coordinating and managing response operations during various emergencies and disasters. In this section, we will introduce you to the OVERT Incident Command Unit, its mission, capabilities, and the critical services it provides to our community.

Mission and Objectives: The OVERT Incident Command Unit’s primary mission is to ensure a well-coordinated and effective response to emergencies by providing expert leadership and management. Our objectives include:

  1. Emergency Coordination: To efficiently coordinate resources, personnel, and communication during emergencies, ensuring a streamlined response.
  2. Incident Management: To implement the Incident Command System (ICS) and manage the overall response strategy during incidents, ensuring a unified and organized approach.
  3. Resource Allocation: To assess and allocate resources such as personnel, equipment, and supplies to where they are most needed.
  4. Interagency Collaboration: To foster cooperation with other emergency response agencies, local authorities, and organizations to enhance overall response effectiveness.

Capabilities: The OVERT Incident Command Unit is equipped with a wide range of capabilities to fulfill its mission effectively. These include:

  1. Experienced Incident Commanders: Our team comprises experienced incident commanders with extensive training in emergency management and incident response.
  2. SAR managers- Our team has extensive experience in managing various search operations.
  3. Command Post: A mobile command post equipped with communication and information management systems for on-site coordination.
  4. Resource Management: Tools and software for resource tracking, deployment, and logistical support.
  5. Situation Assessment: The ability to conduct real-time situation assessments and provide accurate information to decision-makers.
  6. Communication Infrastructure: Advanced communication equipment for effective interagency and public communication.

O.V.E.R.T

Ground SAR

Welcome to the Ontario Volunteer Emergency Response Team’s (OVERT) Ground Search and Rescue (GSAR) Unit page. Our dedicated team of highly trained volunteers is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of residents across the province of Ontario. The GSAR Unit specializes in land-based search and rescue operations, providing crucial assistance during missing person incidents, wilderness emergencies, and various other situations that require ground-based search and rescue efforts. In this section, we will introduce you to the OVERT GSAR Unit, its mission, capabilities, and the essential services it provides to the community.

Mission and Objectives: The OVERT GSAR Unit is driven by a mission to save lives and provide rapid assistance to individuals in distress within Ontario’s diverse and often challenging landscapes. Our primary objectives include:

  1. Search and Rescue: To locate and rescue individuals who are lost, injured, or missing in remote, wilderness or urban areas.
  2. Emergency Response: To respond swiftly to calls for help and provide vital assistance during natural disasters, outdoor emergencies, and various critical situations.
  3. Community Education: To educate the public about outdoor safety, preparedness, and responsible outdoor recreational practices.
  4. Interagency Cooperation: To collaborate with other emergency response agencies, law enforcement, and local authorities to enhance the overall effectiveness of search and rescue efforts.

Capabilities: The OVERT GSAR Unit possesses a wide range of capabilities to carry out its mission effectively. These capabilities include:

  1. Search Techniques: Highly trained personnel skilled in various search techniques, including ground searches, tracking, and navigation.
  2. Emergency Medical Response: Team members with medical qualifications to provide immediate care in remote locations.
  3. Communication: Advanced communication equipment for effective coordination and reporting during search and rescue operations.
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Services: The OVERT GSAR Unit offers a range of vital services to the community, including:

  1. Search and Rescue: Swift and effective search and rescue operations to locate and assist individuals in distress.
  2. Emergency Response: Assistance during natural disasters, wilderness emergencies, and other critical incidents.
  3. Public Education: Community outreach and educational programs to promote outdoor safety and responsible recreational practices.
  4. Collaboration: Cooperative efforts with other emergency response agencies and authorities to ensure a coordinated response.
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Training and Certification

Each member of our Canine Unit, including our cadaver dogs, undergoes rigorous training and certification to ensure they can perform effectively in high-stress situations. Our handlers and their canine partners continuously hone their skills, making them a reliable and vital asset during emergencies.

Unleashing Hope and Help in Emergencies

Canine

Welcome to the OVERT Canine Unit, a critical division of The Ontario Volunteer Emergency Response Team. Our four-legged heroes are not just companions; they are invaluable assets during times of crisis. With their unwavering loyalty, sharp senses, and specialized training, our canines play a pivotal role in saving lives and locating missing persons.

Our Canine Unit comprises highly trained dogs and their dedicated handlers, ready to spring into action at a moment’s notice. These canine responders are experts in search and rescue operations. 

Cadaver Dogs: Specialized Expertise

In addition to search and rescue capabilities, OVERT is equipped with cadaver dogs, trained to detect human remains. These specialized canines play a crucial role in:

  • Forensic Search: Our cadaver dogs are trained to locate human remains, aiding law enforcement agencies and assisting in missing persons cases and criminal investigations.
  • Disaster Recovery: During natural disasters or incidents involving mass casualties, our cadaver dogs help locate and recover victims, bringing closure to families and communities.

Mission and Expertise

The OVERT Canine Unit, including our cadaver dog team, is on a mission to:

  • Search and Rescue: Our skilled search and rescue dogs can locate missing persons in various environments, from urban areas to wilderness.
  • Disaster Response: When disasters strike, our canine unit is equipped to assist in locating survivors under debris and rubble, ensuring no one is left behind.

Uniting Expertise for Safety and Relief

Technical Rescue

Welcome to the OVERT Technical Rescue Unit, a crucial division of The Ontario Volunteer Emergency Response Team. Our specialized team of rescue experts is dedicated to executing intricate and high-risk rescue operations in various challenging environments. We are the beacon of hope when individuals find themselves in precarious situations, whether it involves heights or technical rope challenges.

Meet Our Technical Rescue Specialists

Our Technical Rescue Unit comprises a highly skilled team of rescue team members who are experts in high-angle and technical rope rescue. With unwavering commitment and a passion for safety, our team is poised to respond swiftly to a wide array of complex emergencies.

 A technical rope rescue is a specialized field of rescue operations that involves using ropes, specialized equipment, and advanced techniques to access, stabilize, and extricate individuals who are in challenging, high-angle, or difficult-to-reach locations. This type of rescue is typically required when traditional methods of rescue, such as ground-based approaches, are not feasible due to the location or nature of the incident.

Our Technical Rescue in the field

Explore our gallery to witness the incredible work of our Technical Rescue Unit in action. From daring high-angle rescues to navigating confined spaces, our team is ready to face the most demanding scenarios with precision and expertise.

Thank you for visiting the OVERT Technical Rescue Unit page. With our technical expertise and unwavering commitment to safety, we are determined to make Ontario a safer place for all, one rescue at a time.

tech-rescue

Training and Certification

Each member of our Technical Rescue Unit undergoes rigorous training and certification in specialized rescue techniques and safety protocols. We remain at the forefront of advancements in equipment and methodologies to ensure we are prepared for any challenge.

marine

Services: The OVERT Marine Unit offers a range of services to the community, including:

  1. Water Rescue: Rapid response to water emergencies to save lives and provide immediate assistance to those in need.
  2. Flood Response: Assisting during flood events, including evacuations, water rescues, and flood mitigation efforts.
  3. Public Awareness: Conducting educational programs and outreach to promote water safety and emergency preparedness.
  4. Search and Recovery: Locating and recovering individuals or property lost in waterways.

O.V.E.R.T

Marine

Welcome to the Ontario Volunteer Emergency Response Team’s (OVERT) Marine Unit! Our dedicated team of skilled volunteers plays a crucial role in supporting emergency response efforts across the province of Ontario. As part of OVERT, the Marine Unit specializes in waterborne operations, providing assistance during floods, natural disasters, and various emergencies that require a maritime response. In this section, we will introduce you to the OVERT Marine Unit, its mission, capabilities, and the essential services it provides to the community.

Mission and Objectives: The OVERT Marine Unit is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of the residents of Ontario by delivering timely and effective emergency response services on the water. Our mission and objectives include:

  1. Emergency Response: To respond swiftly and effectively to water-related emergencies, including floods, water rescues, and natural disasters, to safeguard lives and property.
  2. Search and Rescue: To conduct search and rescue operations in Ontario’s waterways, locating and rescuing individuals in distress.
  3. Public Education: To educate the community about water safety, emergency preparedness, and the importance of responsible boating practices.
  4. Interagency Cooperation: To collaborate with other emergency response agencies, such as local fire departments, police, and paramedics, to enhance the overall effectiveness of emergency response efforts.

Capabilities: The OVERT Marine Unit is equipped with a range of specialized tools, equipment, and highly trained personnel to carry out its mission effectively. Our capabilities include:

  1. Marine Vessels: Our  boats are designed for various purposes, including search and rescue, flood response, and medical evacuations.

 

  1. Navigation and Communication: Advanced navigation systems and communication equipment ensure we can respond swiftly and coordinate effectively with other agencies.
  2. Water Rescue Equipment: We possess specialized water rescue gear, including life vests, throw bags, and rescue ropes.

Medical Support: Our team includes medical professionals trained to provide critical care during water-based emergencies

O.V.E.R.T

Communications

Welcome to the Ontario Volunteer Emergency Response Team’s (OVERT) Communications Unit page. Our dedicated team of skilled communicators plays a vital role in ensuring effective and efficient communication during emergency response efforts across the province of Ontario. The Communications Unit specializes in establishing and maintaining critical lines of communication during various emergencies and disasters. In this section, we will introduce you to the OVERT Communications Unit, its mission, capabilities, and the indispensable services it provides to the community.

Mission and Objectives: The OVERT Communications Unit’s primary mission is to establish and maintain reliable communication systems that facilitate the coordination of response efforts during emergencies. Our objectives include:

  1. Emergency Communication: To establish and maintain reliable communication channels to ensure timely and accurate information flow among emergency response teams.
  2. Interagency Coordination: To facilitate effective communication between various emergency response agencies, ensuring seamless cooperation during incidents.
  3. Technical Support: To provide expertise in communication equipment and technologies to enhance the overall effectiveness of emergency response efforts.
  4. Community Education: To educate the public about the importance of effective communication during emergencies and how to access emergency services.

 

Capabilities: The OVERT Communications Unit is equipped with a range of specialized tools, equipment, and highly trained personnel to fulfill its mission effectively. Our capabilities include:

  1. Communication Systems: Advanced radio systems, satellite communication equipment, and other technologies to establish and maintain communication in various environments.
  2. Emergency Dispatch: Trained dispatchers with expertise in emergency call handling, information gathering, and coordination.
  3. Technical Expertise: Skilled technicians to maintain, troubleshoot, and repair communication equipment.
  4. Information Management: Systems for logging and managing critical incident information, ensuring accurate and organized record-keeping.
  5. Interoperability Solutions: Tools and protocols to facilitate communication between different agencies and jurisdictions.
communications

Services: The OVERT Communications Unit offers a range of essential services to the community, including:

  1. Emergency Communication: Establishing and maintaining communication channels for timely and accurate information exchange during emergencies.
  2. Dispatch Services: Expertise in emergency call handling, information gathering, and dispatch coordination.
  3. Technical Support: Maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of communication equipment.
  4. Training and Education: Providing training and resources to the community on effective communication practices during emergencies.
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Services: The OVERT Aerial Drone Unit offers a range of essential services to the community, including:

  1. Aerial Reconnaissance: Providing valuable aerial perspectives to assist incident commanders and emergency response teams.
  2. Search and Rescue Support: Aiding in locating missing persons and assessing the terrain in challenging environments.
  3. Infrastructure Assessment: Aerial inspections of damaged structures and critical infrastructure to support response efforts.
  4. Public Safety Monitoring: Monitoring and documenting events to ensure public safety and situational awareness.

O.V.E.R.T

Aerial Drone Unit

Welcome to the Ontario Volunteer Emergency Response Team’s (OVERT) Aerial Support Unit page. Our highly skilled team of drone operators and technicians plays a critical role in enhancing the effectiveness of emergency response efforts across the province of Ontario. The Aerial Support Unit specializes in deploying drones to provide crucial aerial perspectives during various emergencies and disasters. In this section, we will introduce you to the OVERT Aerial Drone Unit, its mission, capabilities, and the indispensable services it provides to the community.

Mission and Objectives: The OVERT Aerial Support Unit’s primary mission is to utilize unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to support emergency response teams and authorities in their efforts to save lives, assess situations, and manage disasters. Our objectives include:

  1. Aerial Surveillance: To provide real-time aerial views of disaster-affected areas, helping responders assess the situation and make informed decisions.
  2. Search and Rescue Assistance: To assist in locating missing persons, particularly in remote or difficult-to-reach areas.
  3. Damage Assessment: To conduct aerial inspections of damaged infrastructure, helping prioritize response efforts.
  4. Public Safety: To enhance situational awareness and public safety by monitoring events and incidents from above.

Capabilities: The OVERT Aerial Support Unit is equipped with state-of-the-art drone technology and a team of skilled operators and technicians to fulfill its mission effectively. Our capabilities include:

  1. Advanced Drone Fleet: A variety of drones equipped with cameras, sensors, and other capabilities suitable for different emergency scenarios.
  2. Remote Pilots: Licensed drone pilots with expertise in aerial photography, videography, and data collection.
  3. Data Analysis: Professionals skilled in processing and analyzing the data collected by drones for rapid decision-making.
  4. Situational Awareness: Real-time streaming of drone footage to incident commanders and responders on the ground.
  5. GIS Integration: Integration with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to provide precise mapping and location data.