Join the team
Thank you for your interest in joining the San Gorgonio Search and Rescue Team! Below you will find the entry level requirements for Search and Rescue volunteers. The San Gorgonio Search and Rescue Team is not a hiking club. Volunteer SAR members are expected to work hard and show dedication along with a willingness to learn and excel in new skills. The training process is challenging, requires a significant amount of time and money investment.
Our next recruiting period will open in 2025.
If you are interested in joining another San Bernardino County search and rescue team, a team list is available at SBSAR.ORG.
All persons applying for the position of a search and rescue citizen volunteer must complete the Department application process.
No felony convictions
No pending misdemeanor of felony court cases
In compliance with the Department tattoo policy
Eighteen + years of age
Legal resident of the United States
Possess a high school diploma or GED
Possess a valid driver's license
In addition requirements listed above, the San Gorgonio Search and Rescue Team also requires:
Live within a 45 minute drive of Mill Creek Ranger Station, located at the corner of Highway 38 and Bryant Road.
Attend 2 separate weekend trainings per month, one saturday and one sunday, for team and mentor training, plus attend monthly business meetings.
Be physically fit with the ability to carry 40 pound packs over long distances.
Minimum commitment of 5 years of service.
Selection process
Submit a preliminary application to info@sgsar.org or bring a completed hard copy to a meeting.
Attend 3 business meetings
Oral interview with unit personnel
If selected, complete the Sheriff’s Department application and pass the background check
Membership Requirements
Attend more than 60% of the annual unit monthly meetings and trainings
Respond to more than 20% of the annual search and rescue calls
Serve on a team committee
Annually demonstrate and pass a SAR skills proficiency practical test
Maintain required uniforms and equipment (24-Hour Pack)
Maintain driver’s license and insurance
Track and submit personal monthly statistics
First Year Training Requirements
Attend the unit’s mentor monthly training program. (Mandatory, regardless of your skillset.)
Attend the unit’s monthly meeting and training
Complete the Department’s Basic Search & Rescue Academy- BSAR
Respond to search and rescue callouts
Department Driver’s Awareness Certification
First Aid and CPR certification
Complete 4 ICS courses: 100LEb, IS 200b, IS 700a, IS 800b
Purchase and maintain all required uniforms and equipment. (24-hour pack list is available at SBSAR.ORG documents tab.)
Track and submit personal monthly statistics
Demonstrate knowledge & proficiency of unit and station protocol/procedure
Any member failing to meet these requirements may be separated from the team.