Oregon is a state in which residents and visitors from around the world enjoy a wide variety of outdoor recreation. Camping, hiking, swimming and skiing are just a few of the activities Oregon is known for. However, these activities may also result in the need to find people who become lost or injured. Oregon Search and Rescue (SAR) covers a broad spectrum that includes lost hikers to injured skiers or potential drownings, and much more. Its main purpose is to promote and assist SAR capabilities and resources in the State of Oregon with the underlying principle of saving lives. To serve this purpose, the state liaisons with the Oregon State Sheriff’s Association Search and Rescue Advisory Council (SARAC) who represent their 36 County SAR Coordinators.
Some search and rescue missions can be avoided by being prepared. Know where you're going, tell others where you are going and when you will return, and bring extra supplies.
The State of Oregon has a Search and Rescue Program Coordinator, who is based out of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management, and whose responsibilities include:
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Coordinate activities of state and federal agencies involved in search and rescue
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Establish liaison with the Oregon State Sheriff’s Association, and other public and private organizations and agencies involved in search and rescue
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Provide on-scene search and rescue coordination when requested by an authorized person
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Coordinate and process requests for the use of volunteers and equipment
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Assist in developing training and outdoor education programs
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Gather statistics in search and rescue operations
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Gather and disseminate resource information of personnel, equipment and materials available for search and rescue
For more information about Oregon’s Search and Rescue Program, contact:
Scott Lucas, State Search and Rescue Coordinator
971-283-6135
scott.lucas@oem.oregon.gov
This page is currently under construction pending the OEM transition to the new Oregon Department of Emergency Management. Stay tuned for updated information.