Sheriff's Office

Technical Division

The Technical Division provides capabilities for complex rescues requiring specialized rigging and equipment. This includes technical rock rescue, technical snow and ice rescue, low‑angle rope rescue, abandoned‑mine rescue or recovery, and helicopter hoist operations. Technical teams also provide rigging systems to support divers in moving‑water environments and use advanced GPS tracking and mapping systems to document operations. 

Volunteer Service 

WCSAR is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All members undergo a Sheriff’s Office background check and commit to weekly training sessions as well as weekend exercises. The organization has been nationally recognized for its volunteer training standards and operational readiness. 

Community Support

Washoe County Search and Rescue volunteers provide lifesaving services at no cost to those we assist and receive no direct tax funding for our operations. Our team contributes thousands of volunteer hours each year, along with equipment, training, and resources that save local taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars annually. Your donations help fund critical equipment, training, vehicles, and mission readiness, ensuring our volunteers are prepared to respond when help is needed most. Please consider supporting our mission with a donation.

Donate

Community Engagement

Interested in having Search & Rescue participate in a community event, career day, safety fair, presentation, or educational program? Please complete our request form below.

Appearance Request