About Us

The Lake County Search and Rescue (SAR) Team is a dedicated volunteer organization that works under the direction of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office to assist in locating and rescuing lost, injured, or missing persons throughout Lake County and surrounding areas. Our mission is to provide professional, timely, and compassionate response to emergencies in all environments—from rugged wilderness and waterways to urban settings. Team members are trained in ground search techniques, first aid, navigation, rope rescue, and disaster response, ensuring a high standard of readiness for any situation. Through community outreach, education, and collaboration with local and state agencies, Lake County Search and Rescue is committed to protecting lives and promoting public safety for residents and visitors alike.

Our Founding

The Lake County Search & Rescue Team was organized in the early 1980s under the auspices of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office to provide volunteer-ground search support for missing persons throughout Lake County and beyond. Since its inception, the team has grown to include dedicated community volunteers who train alongside sheriff’s deputies to respond to wilderness, water, and urban search operations—ensuring that residents and visitors alike have an organized and capable resource when time‐is‐critical.

Volunteer support is the backbone of the Lake County Search and Rescue Team’s success. As a primarily volunteer-based organization, the team relies on the dedication, skill, and selflessness of community members who devote countless hours to training and emergency response. These volunteers bring a wide range of expertise—from medical and technical rescue skills to local terrain knowledge—that enhances the team’s ability to respond quickly and effectively in critical situations. Their commitment not only extends the capabilities of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office but also strengthens the bond between public safety agencies and the community they serve. Without the generosity of these volunteers and the support of their families, employers, and donors, the team’s lifesaving missions would not be possible

Volunteer Driven

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