The Wasco County Search and Rescue (SAR for short) is an all-volunteer organization serving under the direction of the County Sheriff. Most of the required equipment is provided (as a loan) to individual members by the Sheriff's department. Funding for supplies, training, etc., is provided by the County General Fund via the Sheriff, fundraisers, and grants or gifts from a variety of sources. Volunteers should expect to spend 20 or more hours per month in SAR-related activities.
Joining: There are two administrative steps to be completed in order to become a member of the SAR unit:
The Sheriff's decision is final.
Training: Most training is paid for by SAR funds. The Coordinator and Sheriff have final say on what is funded. Members are required to stay current with Red Cross certifications in First Aid and CPR, pass a written test, and complete field exercises with map & compass and GPS. In addition to whatever pre-existing skills a volunteer brings to SAR, she is encouraged to take additional training in various fields, and to specialize in one. Broadly, training is available in: