Four New Members Join Sierra Madre Search and Rescue

In June, the latest class of probationary members completed their multi-day final field test and graduated to full member status, earning the right to wear the blue Mountain Rescue Association patch.

Of nine prospective members who began the training last year, only four successfully completed the arduous process.

New member training for SMSR members lasts 18 months and represents a serious commitment of time and effort. Probationary members must attend a training class one night per week, two team trainings per month, and a monthly team meeting.

After an initial six-month training period they are expected to participate in field operations as well. Outside of official Team activities, trainees spend much of their “free” time practicing and perfecting the skills they learn in class.

Between scheduled trainings, operations, and practice, it is not uncommon for probationary members to devote 20 hours a week to the Team.

The time commitment is immense but necessary to learn what it takes to function as an SMSR team member, including high-angle rescue,  land navigation, radio operations, man-tracking, patient packaging, snow and alpine travel, helicopter operations, and swiftwater rescue. All these skills must be performed in extremes of heat and cold, at any time of the day or night. As the team motto says: “Anywhere in the wilderness that someone needs help…”

After a short break, new team members begin the next phase of their training: three months of night school to earn their EMT certifications, a requirement for all Team members.

The commitment to joining the team is a financial one as well. Probationary members must purchase much of their personal equipment themselves, spending on average $1,000-2,000 dollars during their first year with the Team.

Patch is seeking names and photographs of the new team members, but was unable to aquire them ahead of publication. We will publish that information as soon as it is made available.

Team Member Recruitment is Ongoing

SMSR is currently recruiting for its next probationary members’ class. The only requirements for consideration are that candidates live within 20 minutes of Sierra Madre, be 25 to 55 years of age, and be physically fit and comfortable in the outdoors. And, of course, that they have a desire to work hard to help others. Visit the Team’s website for application information.

For 60 years the all-volunteer Sierra Madre Search and Rescue team has been responding to calls for help in the local mountains and beyond. Funded entirely by private donations, SMSR provides a range of public programs on wilderness safety in addition to its search and rescue activities. The Team never charges for any of its services.

For more information, including how to arrange a wilderness safety demonstration for your school or group, visit www.smsr.org.

This article was submitted to Patch by Alex Dundas of the .