Contra Costa Search and Rescue

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is it possible to get a shoulder patch from your team for my collection?

No. We're not able to do that.

How much of my time will I need to devote to Search and Rescue (SAR) if I am a productive and active member in the unit?

If you already have a busy lifestyle with little free time on your hands, you should probably reconsider joining. While the time commitment varies, you can generally count on spending one weekend a month training. You will be on call 24 hours a day, every day of the year, and should be able to respond to a search within one hour. Your time commitment at a search will vary depending on the location and circumstances of the search. While we recognize you will not always be available, your lifestyle, work, and other commitments should be somewhat flexible to allow you to participate in searches. Members are required to attend 70% of the activities to maintain proficiency in the wide variety of skills needed to be an active member of the unit.

I just want to do EMT skills, communications, or other specialties. Do I have to participate in other activities?

All members regardless of age start at the same rank and have equal access to promotion and responsibility based on attendance and performance. All members must complete the same training requirements and must be prepared to carry out any task assigned during and exercise or search.

What does search and rescue really do?

Most of our callouts involve wilderness searches in rugged terrain. At times, Contra Costa County Search and Rescue responds to searches throughout the state. A number of those searches occur during extreme weather and at night. This requires members to have above average endurance and to feel comfortable in the great outdoors in extreme conditions. Searching can be very rewarding, but also very draining, both physically and emotionally. Our unit is also called upon to conduct evidence searches for major crimes including homicides. Members are trained in EMS, rope rescue, map and compass navigation, search techniques, man tracking, etc. These, however, are only a small part of our overall training requirements.

Will I have to provide my own personal equipment?

Yes. There is a complete list of equipment available at orientation. It includes items like hiking boots, rain gear, food for 36 hours, a backpack, sleeping bag, thermal underwear, flashlight, etc. You will be expected to have most of the core gear after about four months. You must have all the equipment prior to going on searches. The team provides such items as radios, advanced first aid equipment, rescue gear, etc.

What kind of training will I receive?

Over the course of your first year, you will receive training in wilderness survival, map and compass navigation, medical training, man tracking, search skills, rope rescue, and other topics. As it takes almost a year to train a person, members should be prepared to give at least a two year commitment to SAR.

Will my background be investigated?

All new members will have a confidential background investigation done by the Sheriff’s Department, including a DMV and criminal history check. It is important to the Sheriff’s Department that all members are of sound character and show good judgment in their personal conduct. Members may often be involved in sensitive situations requiring trust and the ability to respect confidentiality. They will also be expected to maintain a lifestyle of an upstanding, law abiding citizen.

Updated April 25, 1999