ABOUT US
ABOUT US
Serving the community is our top priority
Serving the community is our top priority
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The San Benito County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue (SAR) Team is a dedicated group of approximately 30 trained volunteers committed to assisting the San Benito County Sheriff’s Office in times of need. Our members come from all walks of life, united by a shared mission — to serve our community and protect those in danger.
We train year-round in multiple disciplines to ensure we are ready for any situation. Whether navigating rugged terrain on foot, by ATV, or on horseback, our volunteers are prepared to respond at a moment’s notice. From lost hikers and missing persons to downed aircraft and evidence searches, our team stands ready to support law enforcement and emergency services whenever called upon.
Beyond our search operations, we take pride in maintaining a spirit of teamwork, professionalism, and community service. Each volunteer dedicates countless hours to training, field readiness, and continued education to ensure that when the call comes, San Benito County SAR is mission-ready.
A Land of Ranches, Red Hills, and Resilience
A Land of Ranches, Red Hills, and Resilience
Nestled in the heart of Central California, San Benito County is known for its wide-open spaces, rolling hills, and deep agricultural roots. The county includes the communities of Hollister, San Juan Bautista, and Aromas, as well as vast rural and wilderness areas stretching toward the Diablo Range and Pinnacles National Park.
This diverse landscape — from oak-dotted valleys and vineyards to rocky ridgelines and canyons — provides both the beauty and the challenges that make our search and rescue work so unique. Our volunteers train to navigate every environment the county offers, often working in steep terrain, remote ranchlands, and unpredictable weather conditions.
San Benito County also has a strong sense of community and tradition. From the annual rodeo and county fair to local parades, fundraisers, and community events, our residents embody the spirit of small-town connection and pride. The Search and Rescue team reflects that same spirit — neighbors helping neighbors, ready to respond day or night when our community calls.
Training & Preparedness
Training & Preparedness
Ready for Any Mission
Ready for Any Mission
The San Benito County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team trains year-round to ensure every member is prepared for the wide range of missions we may be called to support. Our team meets for regular trainings every other Monday evening, with additional Saturday field trainings held throughout the year for hands-on scenario practice.
Our goal is to maintain proficiency in the critical skills that make our team effective, efficient, and safe in the field.
Core Training Areas
Core Training Areas
Navigation
Navigation
We train with both map and compass as well as modern GPS technology, including handheld Garmin devices and CalTopo mapping software, ensuring our members can confidently navigate any terrain.
Radio Communications
Radio Communications
Clear communication saves lives. We practice proper radio procedures and efficient communication techniques to stay coordinated during real-world missions.
First Aid
First Aid
All members are trained in essential first aid and wilderness medical response, preparing them to assist injured subjects or fellow team members in remote areas.
Search Techniques
Search Techniques
Members learn and practice multiple search methods — including grid searches, hasty searches, and other structured field tactics — to locate missing persons efficiently and safely.
Technical Rescue
Technical Rescue
Our technical training includes rope systems, rigging, and patient packaging to prepare for steep terrain rescues and extractions.
Search Management
Search Management
We train in lost person behavior, statistics, and operational planning to support command and control roles during active searches.
ATV Operations
ATV Operations
Our ATV team trains on responsible and effective off-road driving, emphasizing safety, navigation, and field deployment tactics.
Truck & Trailer
Truck & Trailer
Members gain experience in hooking, towing, and backing trailers safely, preparing them to transport equipment and deploy assets quickly and efficiently.
Tracking
Tracking
Our team trains in visual tracking and sign-cutting techniques to help locate and follow clues left behind by missing persons. Members learn to identify subtle disturbances such as footprints, broken vegetation, and ground impressions, as well as interpret how terrain, lighting, and weather affect tracks.
Specialized Training
Specialized Training
Mounted Unit
Mounted Unit
Our mounted members train regularly with their horses, providing critical mobility and visibility advantages during large-area searches.
UAV Training
UAV Training
Our drone team utilizes aerial platforms for search-by-air operations and advanced orthomosaic mapping, enhancing situational awareness and search accuracy.
Stay Connected
Stay Connected
We’re always training, improving, and responding to serve San Benito County.
To keep up with our latest updates, training photos, and mission news, please follow us on Facebook — your support helps keep our volunteers motivated and our community connected.
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