Article content Record numbers of Albertans heading into the Rockies’ eastern slopes have search and rescue numbers spiking during the pandemic, say first responders. Those pressures have forced taxpayers to ante up millions of dollars more to cover the costs of bringing people to safety, said the province. We apologize, but this video has failed to load. Try refreshing your browser, or Alberta search and rescue calls soar during pandemic Back to video Seeking outdoor relief from COVID-19 restrictions during 2020 led to the busiest year on provincial Crown land with 5,394,168 visits to Kananaskis Country, a 24 per cent increase over 2019, say Alberta Parks and Environment.