Search and Rescue Team

The Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team consists of full-time deputies and volunteers from local communities around Siskiyou County. SAR is a well-trained department and is divided into two teams: a Field Team and a Support Team. The Field Team members are proficient in searching for lost people, rescuing injured people, evidence searches, recovering the deceased, and assisting the county during natural disasters. The Support Team assists the Field Team by providing communications and logistical support during SAR missions.

All members are required to attend a set number of meetings, training sessions and exercises, and call-outs. In addition, each member must possess basic first aid and CPR cards, as well as maintain required basic equipment and meet physical requirements. SAR personnel are required to pass periodic skills/abilities tests and demonstrate proficiency in a variety of search and survival skills.

Siskiyou County is loaded with topographies ranging from swift-water rivers to high elevation mountains, the highest being Mt. Shasta at 14,179 feet. The climate offers four “real” seasons ranging from whiteout snowstorms to extremely hot summer days. Siskiyou County is a visitor’s and hiker’s paradise offering diverse terrain, seasons and environments for the outdoor enthusiast. Along with these come dangers and challenges that often result in Search and Rescue missions.

By far the most important element in the success of search and rescue is the selfless dedication that comes from our volunteer SAR team. Team members come from most all of our local communities, and serve the public without pay or compensation. These men and women take time from their jobs and family to provide an invaluable service to the public. Without them, we could not effectively do search and rescue, and the thanks for lives saved should go to them.