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.
Recruiting Day: February 8 2025 at Yucaipa City Hall, 11 am - 2 pm
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
San Gorgonio Search and Rescue Team additional entry level requirements
Must have previous hiking experience. No exceptions.
Applicants should be able to hike to High Creek Camp in 6 hours roundtrip.
Be physically fit with the ability to carry 40 pound backpacks over long distances.
Have the physical ability to summit San Gorgonio Mountain.
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.
Must be able to use a smartphone for navigation, mapping, GPS, communication, callouts, email and chat groups.
Minimum commitment of 5 years of service.
Selection process
Submit a preliminary application to sgsarteam@sbsar.org or bring a completed hard copy to a meeting.
Attend 3 business meetings
Oral interview with San Gorgonio Search and Rescue Team
If selected, complete the Sheriff’s Department application and pass the background check
First year training requirements (probationary period)
Attend the monthly mentor training program. (Mandatory, regardless of your skillset.)
Attend the 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 your volunteer hours
Demonstrate knowledge & proficiency of unit and station protocol/procedure
Any member failing to meet these requirements may be separated from the team.
Annual membership requirements
Attend more than 60% of the meetings per year
Attend more than 60% of the training per year
Respond to more than 20% of the annual search and rescue calls
Help maintain team equipment and headquarters facility
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