As the search for a missing Coldstream man enters day four, crews are visiting area homes looking for the senior.
Vernon Search and Rescue (VSAR) along with other search team members from Southern B.C. are continuing the search for Robert Baines today (Jan. 5).
“SAR members will be knocking on doors in the Kal Park neighborhoods - they will be requesting to search outbuildings and yards. We cannot enter your yard without permission,” said Coralie Nairn, VSAR manager.
Official provincial SAR members will be wearing identifiable clothing and have provincial ID.
“Statistically, the highest probability of locating a person on this type of search is within a structure (they will seek shelter),” said Nairn. “Vernon SAR would like to clear and confirm ‘where he is not’ wherever possible.”
Those who live in the area and are not at home but would like to give permission to search, can forward their address to vsarclues@gmail.com.
“If we do search your property, we will leave a piece of flagging tape with search and rescue markings.”
SAR dogs (with provincial ID) are also searching residential areas and Kal Park with ground teams.
“Search Dogs look for scent – that’s any fresh scent. We acknowledge Kal Park is a busy park but ask if you do see SAR dog teams working the area, to allow them space,” said Nairn.
SAR crews from Kelowna, Kamloops and the Shuswap are assisting Vernon in the search for Baines.
The 83-year-old went missing from his residence near Ponderosa Way in Coldstream on Tuesday, Jan. 2. Baines was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and may appear confused or disoriented if approached.
“Despite all efforts that have been undertaken, including an extensive ground search of Kalamalka Park that included RCMP and Vernon Search and Rescue resources, Mr. Baines has not been located,” said RCMP media relations officer Const. Chris Terleski in an update on the situation just after 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 3.
Terleski urges people living in the area of Baines’ residence to search their properties for any sign of the missing man.
“We are now asking residents in the area of Ponderosa Way and the red and yellow gate areas of Kalamalka Park to review home security footage if they have it and thoroughly check their properties for any sings of Mr. Baines,” Terleksi said. “Look under porches, under and inside all bushes, hedges etc., and check any outbuildings such as sheds or garages, as well as boats and recreational vehicles.”
Baines is five-feet-nine-inches tall, weighs approximately 200 pounds, is bald and has brown eyes.
He was last seen wearing a green tilly hat, green jacket, grey undershirt, blue jeans and white hiking shoes.
If you have seen or heard from Baines, contact your local police.
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