The primary function of Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) Search and Rescue (SAR) is to perform ground searches. SAR works very closely with the Sheriff’s Office and is a highly adaptive unit, performing a variety of functions as needed.

Search and Rescue involves finding lost hikers, hunters, climbers, skiiers, children, and deceased subjects; searching for evidence at crime scenes; SWAT scenarios and OLCC missions; and assisting with evacuations during natural disasters, such as windstorms, floods, etc.

This can only be accomplished with proper training. A nine-month training period begins each September. Training consists of weekly meetings and monthly weekend field training sessions, where skills learned at meetings are applied.

SAR training includes land navigation, including map and compass skills and the use of GPS; knot-tying for ropes systems, rappelling, and high-angle rescue; first aid; multiple search types; mantracking; snow travel and cold weather survival; helicopter safety; urban search and rescue; and much more.

MCSO SAR provides opportunities to build confidence, self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, and leadership skills. We welcome all skill levels, including people with little or no outdoor experience. We will help you acquire the skills you’ll need to be a successful searcher and an asset to your community.