Arnold, CA…Once a month the Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office Volunteer Search and Rescue Team (SAR) conducts training on a variety of topics to ensure searchers are ready for any type of search mission. The August 2020 training was held on August 15th and involved a lost person scenario. During the simulation, experienced SAR members were tasked with leading a team of new search members in field exercises and techniques. Other members were provided with training on how to coordinate a search and rescue command post. Command post topics included radio communication, mapping, tracking of resources, logistics and instruction on integrating the new Covid-19 guidelines while maintaining efficiency.

In addition to the standard search skills training, the SAR team also trained on a new piece of equipment. In 2019 the team received a grant from the Wintercreek Foundation which provided funding for the purchase of a side by side utility vehicle and enclosed trailer. The vehicle was received and outfitted with specialized equipment for patient transport. . For purposes of the training, the SAR team located the missing person and then performed a “carry out” before transferring the person to the utility vehicle.

As a volunteer arm of the Sheriff’s Department, the Search and Rescue Team is the primary agency responsible for searching for people who have become lost or injured in off road and rural areas of Calaveras County. The team is also trained for high-angle, swift-water and avalanche rescue. They respond in every type of weather and in the most difficult terrain environments.

The Search and Rescue Team continually accepts applications. All required training is provided, no experience is necessary. If you are interested, please contact Sgt. Greg Stark (209) 754-6500 or visit the website at calaverassar.org .