We generally train twice monthly:

• Table-top training session after the monthly membership meeting
• Field training on a Saturday or Sunday during the month.

We train to enhance those skills already gained through state certification training as well as develop new skills. Our focus is on the field skills necessary to locate and rescue the lost and distressed persons. It is highly recommended that our members maintain themselves in good physical condition, be emotionally stable, and possess team player skills.

Search and Rescue by its nature, is demanding of physical strength, mental capacity and emotional fortitude. We ask that prospective members bear this in mind as actual search missions may cause physical and emotional duress, which may have long term implications.

Certification Training

Call-out-Qualified (COQ) – Integrate new members quickly into an active role with the group by introducing them to SAR operations, group expectations, and call-out procedures.

Field Team Member (FTM) – Considered ‘basic’ training for all ground search personnel. This is a 50 hour course sponsored by the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) and is the standard for every SAR group in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Field Team Leader (FTL) – The focus is on leadership and field management skills. This 50 hour course also provides the student with an insight to search management.

Field Team Signcutter (FTS) – Introductory course to the larger world of tracking for SAR.

Incident Staff (IS) – Experienced and qualified personnel who have completed the Managing Land Search Operations (MLSO) and Practical Search Operations (PSO) classes may be nominated for Incident Staff.

Incident Commander (IC) – Experienced and qualified Incident Staff personnel are approved as Incident Commanders at the discretion of the Virginia Department of Emergency Management.