Douglas County Search and Rescue volunteers sought

The Douglas County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue Team (DCSAR) is accepting applications for volunteers.

The organization consists of approximately 30 volunteers who respond to public emergencies 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

In the past 12 months, DCSAR has responded to numerous public service emergencies, including searching for lost or stranded skiers, hikers, mountain bikers, ATV or motorcycle riders, horseback riders, four-wheel drivers, river rafters and assisting with downed aircraft incidents.

Applicants must be in good physical condition, demonstrate a cooperative team effort and have a goal-oriented disposition. Prior rescue and medical experience is not required.

Applicants will be screened through interviews. A thorough background check will be conducted by the Douglas County Sheriff's Office. Once accepted, initial training will be provided through a Search and Rescue Academy that begins on March 28.

Instruction will be provided on first aid, CPR, basic search and rescue operations, personal survival, tracking, snowshoeing, rescue vehicle operation, river rafting, water rescue, radio procedure, introduction to incident command, map reading and orientation, GPS and compass.

Members who successfully complete the academy participate on actual search and rescue missions with experienced team members for a six-month training period before becoming a full member.

"If you have time to dedicate to assisting Douglas County and surrounding communities during times of man-made or natural disaster, and aiding citizens in need of rescue or assistance in the backcountry, mountains, trails and waterways, then the Douglas County Sheriff's Search and Rescue Team may be for you," said Sgt. Jim Halsey in a news release.

Details of the academy, including applications, can be obtained online at www.douglassar.org/ or by calling DCSAR Training Coordinator John Soderman at 775-720-6260.

Applications must be submitted by Feb. 15.