Training Overview

All search and rescue members must maintain a level of proficiency in a number of search and rescue skills. These include tracking, orienteering, first aid, wilderness survival, and victim rescue and transport. The team trains together twice per month in the classroom and in the field. Regular training helps us to develop trust and teamwork needed on difficult and extended missions.

Training is provided by local experts and by attending regional SAR training conferences. All members are required to complete basic first aid training and must meet SARTECH II/III requirements. Most have spent years as sportsmen and backcountry enthusiasts. We all share a strong desire to help others in times of need and are dedicated to our cause.

We are a totally volunteer organization, but that does not mean unprofessional or untrained. Most team members are Certified Search and Rescue Trackers and are involved in aspects of Emergency or Public Services in our regular 9 to 5 jobs.

Certifications

Basic wilderness, fitness and first aid skills are required to be a Napa County Search and Rescue team member. Because mission safety is paramount, only those who can demonstrate a basic level of proficiency in wilderness and rescue skills are accepted. Most team members are specialists in particular areas, and collectively we maintain certifications in:

• SAR Tracking (M.A.N. - Fernando Moreira)
• Law Enforcement
• EMT
• Wilderness Medicine
• CARDA trailing and area
• OHV
• USAR
• Rope and Low-Angle Rescue
• Helicopter Operations
• Ham Radio
• FEMA, Haz Mat, CERT & Red Cross First Aid/CPR

L.A.S.T.
Our SAR philosophy:
— Locate
— Assess
— Stabilize
— Transport