RECCO® Technology for Safer Expeditions
Saguenay, March 23, 2026 - At Chlorophylle, we believe adventure should always go hand in hand with safety. That’s why we have already been integrating RECCO® technology into some of our clothing and accessories for outdoor enthusiasts for several years now. This detection system makes it easier to locate people lost in the forest, an essential advancement for the safety of hikers, skiers, and adventurers of all kinds.
A Partnership That Makes a Difference
Since June 2022, the Helico Secours solidarity cooperative has been responsible for the exclusive operation of RECCO® helicopter detection technology in Quebec and Eastern Canada. This strategic partnership with Chlorophylle aims to make the outdoors safer and more accessible to everyone, while supporting search and rescue operations.
"During a rescue operation, every minute counts. The main challenge often lies in locating individuals. With RECCO®, we can scan a square kilometre in just six minutes, compared to several hours with a ground team. This efficiency is crucial and can make all the difference between life and death." - Alain Vallières, General Manager of Helico Secours.
A Concrete Commitment to the Safety of Outdoor Enthusiasts
For 45 years, the Quebec brand Chlorophylle, proudly based in Saguenay, has played an active role in prevention and safety in natural settings. To date, 7,343 people wear the RECCO reflector on their Chlorophylle clothing. "Our mission is to offer high-performance, accessible, and safe clothing. With this partnership, we want every outdoor enthusiast to be able to enjoy their activities with peace of mind, knowing they have an effective rescue system in place should the unexpected happen." - says Manon Rivard, Communications Director at Chlorophylle.
Technology Adapted for Hikers
Chlorophylle integrates RECCO® technology into backpacks and jackets designed for hikers and skiers. This equipment allows outdoor enthusiasts to be better prepared and more easily located in the event of an emergency. Since the pandemic, the use of natural spaces has increased significantly, but often without better preparation on the part of adventurers. RECCO® technology provides an effective solution to this challenge.
How Does RECCO® Work?
Source : Alain Vallières
While snowmobiling in the Mauricie region, a 60-year-old man got stuck on a lake. Trying to free himself on his own, he lost both his boots and decided to walk back to his cottage. Once home, neighbours called for help. The man suffered deep frostbite in both lower limbs.
The decision to call for an air ambulance was the best thing that could have happened to him. To increase his chances of receiving specialized care quickly, he was flown directly to a specialized center in Quebec City and was able to avoid having his feet amputated. After a few months of recovery, he was able to return to his regular activities.
Fast service and timely specialized care increase the chances of survival and reduce the risk of long-term effects.
Helico Secours
During my first helicopter rescue mission in 2001 as a flight paramedic, I went to help a young forestry worker who had been in an ATV accident in the Lac Taureau area. We took charge of the patient, who had suffered a serious leg fracture. From that moment on, I understood just how important it is to have a rapidly available air ambulance service in such a situation.
It can happen to anyone, at any time.

Jonathan Radzvicia
|
Helicopters are operated by operators holding a Transport Canada license (AirMédic) Helico Secours solidarity cooperative Contact us:Customer service:343-205-0080Toll-free:1-877-399-3105EMERGENCY: 343-212-2222DON’T MISS A THING, SIGN UP FOR THE HELICO SECOURS NEWSLETTER! |
|
© 2026 | Helico Secours Solidarity Cooperative | All rights reserved.