Search and Rescue

Search and Rescue (SAR)

The diverse and often rugged terrain of Skamania County, and its popularity for outdoor activities, presents many challenges to SAR resources.

The volunteers of our local SAR organizations offer an invaluable service to our community. Their dedication and professionalism has saved lives, and promotes safety in our beautiful backcountry.

If you need Search and Rescue - Call the Skamania County Sheriff's Office: 509/427-9490, or dial 911.

DEM cards are issued in three categories - novice, support and field with qualifications specified in the following WAC:
http://apps.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=118-04-120

The SAR standards are available for download here.

Washington Emergency Management Division (WEMD) oversees the Washington State SAR Program.

Wind River SAR is a volunteer backcountry/wilderness search and rescue resource serving Skamania County.

Mission: "Rapid response to ground, swiftwater and urban search and rescue missions in Washington and Oregon."

Web site.

Download "24 Hour Pack" pdf

The Skamania County Sheriff’s Dive Rescue Team consists of full time Sworn Law Enforcement Officers and Volunteers throughout the region. The Dive Rescue Team is supervised by Sgt. Arne Gonser of the Skamania County Sheriff’s Office, and Assistant Team Leader Dan Fahrni of Carson, Washington.

Web site.

Pacific Crest Search Dogs provides trained search dogs and handlers for SAR missions.

Web site.

Other regional SAR Teams:

Volcano Rescue Team
Clark County SAR
Silver Star SAR
Northwest ELT
Cowlitz County SAR
Crag Rats
Portland Mountain Rescue
Pacific Northwest SAR
Pacific Northwest Search Dogs

Washington State has many SAR resources who stand ready to help.

Regional SAR teams attended our
Regional SAR AirOps Training, July 21, '07

Search and Rescue (SAR)

Skamania County Emergency Management