PARA Marine Search & Rescue operates a rescue vessel with the marine rescue call sign PARA Marine. As a founding member of the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary (CCGA), PARA Marine Search & Rescue is a member of District 1 in the CCGA's Central and Arctic region.

Founded in 1967 we are one of the oldest volunteer marine search and rescue units on Lake Ontario. Originally under the name Pickering Emergency Rescue Unit (PERU), we were renamed Pickering Ajax Rescue Unit in 1975 and in 1996 were legally incorporated as Pickering Auxiliary Rescue Association. As a nod to all the communities we we serve, we chose to re-brand in 2020 as PARA Marine Search & Rescue. It was a chance to celebrate our past while embrace all those we serve in Durham Region.

Looking back, we have always dedicated ourselves to serving the local community. While there have been a few cosmetic changes since 1967, our focus has always been on building a stronger organization. We look to continue this tradition in the years to come.

PARA Marine Search & Rescue in Action

The Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) is responsible for marine resourcing the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) out of Trenton, Ontario. The CCG maintains assets in strategic locations on Lake Ontario and along with the local volunteer auxiliary units provide the marine assets. Additionally, the Royal Canadian Air Force provides air assets (fixed wing aircraft and helicopters) and SAR Technicians to support any SAR missions.

To support this mandate, PARA Marine is tasked by the JRCC for various missions in the local area. The goal is to provide the most effective response in helping those in need in the water.