Join Us!
Become a Member of Skamania County Search and Rescue
Skamania County Search and Rescue (SCSOSAR) is a volunteer team dedicated to supporting the Skamania County Sheriff’s Office in search, rescue, and emergency response operations throughout the region.
Our members respond to missing person searches, wilderness rescues, disaster support, and other emergency incidents across a wide range of terrain and weather conditions. The work is demanding, but deeply meaningful.
Search and Rescue is not a casual volunteer opportunity. Members commit to ongoing training, operational readiness, and teamwork in challenging environments. In return, they gain the opportunity to serve their community, develop valuable skills, and be part of a mission-driven team.
If you are looking for meaningful service that will challenge you, help you grow, and you are ready to commit to the expectations that come with being part of a volunteer first responder team, we would love to hear from you.
Membership Expectations
Search and Rescue requires commitment and reliability. Members are expected to:
● Attend regular team meetings and training events
● Maintain required certifications and training standards
● Participate in a percentage of search and rescue missions
● Maintain personal readiness and required equipment
● Uphold the professionalism and values of the team
Operational environments can include rugged terrain, remote locations, and severe weather conditions.
Basic Requirements
To obtain and maintain Washington State Search and Rescue certification, members must meet several
requirements, including:
● Valid First Aid / CPR / AED certification
● Valid driver’s license or state-issued identification
● Completion of FEMA training courses including IS-100 and IS-700
● Successful completion of team training and performance evaluations
● Ability to pass required background checks
Additional training and certifications are completed after joining the team.
Interested in Joining?
SCSOSAR accepts new member applications during scheduled biannual application windows each year.
To get started:
1. Download the following new member documents and email the forms to us to apply.
2-Application and Questionnaire.pdf
4-Minimum Field ready hasty gear list.pdf
2. Attend a general meeting or public event
3. Apply during the next open application window
Our team calendar includes upcoming meetings, events, and application timelines