About Us Mendocino County Sheriff's Search and Rescue (SAR) is a volunteer, non-profit organization which is closely associated with the Mendocino County Sheriff's Office. While we work hand in hand with the Sheriff's Office, who deploys us for certain search missions and provides support, we are an independent organization. We are volunteers, who are responsible for raising funds and purchasing most of the equipment needed to complete the tasks asked of us. It is up to our organization to seek out the advanced training that makes us capable of accomplishing our missions safely. Eligibility for Membership Any person who is a United States citizen, and has not been convicted of a felony or serious misdemeanor, and is 14 years or older, is eligible for membership. All members are required to submit to a background check. Member Requirements All SAR members must obtain and maintain valid First Aid and CPR cards. Members are also expected to complete FEMA's Incident Command System (ICS) classes 100, 200, 700 & 800. Throughout the year there are required trainings, and monthly meetings. There are also many other optional training oppurtunities to stregthen ones skills in things such as tracking, rappelling, the use of specialty vehichles, land navigation and much more. Each new member will be required to attend a SAR “boot camp” to obtain the basic skills needed to become an active SAR member. There are no dues or fees for members. After being sworn in as Disaster Service Worker, all members are covered by state worker's compensation and disability benefits during approved training and when called out on SAR missions. Apart from attending meetings and training sessions, all members may be called upon to participate in actual searches. Searches are often done in rugged terrain at all hours of the day or night, and in all weather conditions. Although your specialties may be in a particular area, you can expect to be called upon to join a search on foot if necessary. Right Stuff Being a member of SAR demands a COMMITMENT of your time. While it may be rigorous, it is also rewarding. Please consider carefully if you are prepared to commit yourself to all of these requirements before seeking to join. The strength of SAR comes from its members, working together as a team, committed to the mission to see it through. There are also plenty of support and administrative things to do behind the scenes, so if you are less inclined to climb a mountain or rappel down it, we will still find a place in our organization for you too!