Reposted from Search and Rescue Volunteer Association of Canada (SARVAC)Search and Rescue Volunteer Association of Canada (SARVAC)1,408 followers1,408 followers

🌲 Honouring Jimmy Beveridge: The Legacy of Hug-a-Tree and Survive 🌲

Today, we remember Jimmy Beveridge, whose story led to the creation of the Hug-a-Tree and Survive program—teaching children what to do if they become lost outdoors.

🔎 Inspired by a 1981 Search
Jimmy’s disappearance sparked a massive five-day search involving 400 rescuers. His story became the foundation for a program that has helped prevent similar tragedies for more than four decades.

🇨🇦 From Local Initiative to National Program
Originally developed in the U.S., Hug-a-Tree and Survive was adapted for Canada by the RCMP In 2004, the BC Search and Rescue Association launched AdventureSmart with support from the New Initiatives Fund (NIF). Since 2008, SARVAC has actively promoted both AdventureSmart and Hug-a-Tree and Survive. In 2015, the program was further strengthened by the National Search & Rescue Secretariat (NSS) and SARVAC to expand its reach and impact.

🧭 Still Saving Lives — 45 Years Later
Hug-a-Tree continues to teach essential survival skills to children across the country. Program materials are now available in Michif, Cree-TH, Cree-Y, Dené, Saulteaux and Woodland Cree. Watch the translated videos on the AdventureSmart YouTube channel.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 A Must for Families & Educators
Communities that offer the program report fewer lost-children cases. It’s ideal for schools, Scouts, Guides, and youth groups.

🎒 Learn & Play
✔️ Know the four survival rules
✔️ Try the interactive e-learning game
✔️ Access the full program online at adventuresmart.ca

Jimmy’s legacy lives on—empowering children with knowledge, confidence, and life-saving skills.

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