Search and Rescue application approved

CSG

CSG

Joined
Dec 15, 2007
Messages
1,422
I'd posted a month or so ago that I applied to the local SAR unit (in Idaho they are part of the county sheriff's departments and are volunteer organizations). Got the call from the Lt. who runs the rural patrol that SAR falls under and said to show up at the next meeting to begin training.

We have it all in our county - rivers, lakes, mountains, canyons, desert and not a lot of population but a big backcountry.

I wonder what I've gotten myself into? :eek: Still, as a former deputy sheriff I'd been looking for volunteer work of some significance. I'd felt I was past my prime to work as a reserve police officer or deputy sheriff so this seemed like a good fit for a guy like me who is a bit of an outdoorsman but still wanted to have some affiliation with a law enforcement agency.
 
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congratulations... I remember you posting about it a while back...

I wish I could join... I am only 25 but have a few injuries i need to recover from...

My wife wants to join with me...

Congratulations and hope you enjoy it!!!

post pics of your training :D
 
It's funny but I have no idea what sort of training they offer. Some counties around here train to national standards. Our department doesn't say much on the website but asked about skills on the app. As I'm now 59, there are certain things I shouldn't or won't do (i.e. rappelling down canyon walls) but I can get those guys their coffee. ;)

I'll post periodic updates as I learn more.
 
Good for you; stay safe and have fun :thumbup: !!

Should you find yourself in the neighborhood, check out the Washington State SAR Conference: http://wasarconf.org/

Lots and LOTS of SAR training!!
 
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Good for ya man:thumbup:

I have a question for ya, how does it work down there in terms of applying for SAR.

Do you have to be a sheriff?
 
Fonly said:
Good for ya man:thumbup:

I have a question for ya, how does it work down there in terms of applying for SAR.

Do you have to be a sheriff?
Click to expand...

In Idaho, by law, the SAR units are run by each county's sheriff department. While the boss will always be law enforcement, most of the volunteers are citizens who are called Volunteer Deputies (no peace officer powers). So no, you do not have to in law enforcement to be a member though some law enforcement officers are.

I think the needs and requirements vary from county to county depending on topography, size, etc. Our team averages about 30 members and, from what I gather, certain people with certain skills will be called depending on the mission profile. Meaning, unless there is a major disaster or all hands on deck situation not all team members will be called on every mission.

The county north of us is hardcore in terms of the apps and training standards but they have huge mountainous wilderness areas to deal with. Ours might have more training standards than I'm aware of but our application is much more abbreviated than theirs.

I know they did a background check on me and the board reviewed my app but I was very surprised not to have a formal interview (I was interviewed by the sheriff's lieutenant who runs the team over the phone but I haven't met him face to face).
 
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