Heavy Urban Search and Rescue (HUSAR)
Public Safety Canada's HUSAR Program funds six urban search and rescue teams in Canada to enhance disaster response through equipment, training, and interoperability initiatives.
Funder: Public Safety Canada
Due Dates (Anticipated): September 2026
Funding Amounts: Up to $1,250,000 per recipient annually; maximum $6,250,000 per agreement; federal contribution up to 75% of project costs.
Summary: Supports the development, maintenance, and interoperability of Heavy Urban Search and Rescue (HUSAR) Task Forces across Canada to enhance disaster response capacity.
Key Information: Only the six HUSAR Task Forces’ managing entities are eligible; cost-shared model (75% federal, 25% provincial/municipal/other).
Description
The Heavy Urban Search and Rescue (HUSAR) Program is a federal initiative administered by Public Safety Canada to strengthen Canada's capacity to respond to urban disasters such as building collapses, floods, and other large-scale emergencies. The program provides financial support and resources to six specialized HUSAR Task Forces located in Vancouver, Calgary, Manitoba, Toronto, Montreal, and Halifax. Funding supports equipment acquisition, specialized training, interoperability exercises, and other activities that enhance the ability of these teams to respond efficiently and collaboratively to disasters. The program also emphasizes fostering interoperability among teams and building a resilient national emergency response system.
