RECRUITMENT

The single biggest reason people leave any volunteer organization is because they cannot keep up the commitment required. It is vital you understand there is a significant commitment of time and effort expected when you join CALSARA. After your recruit training is over, you are required to do searches, attend monthly committee meetings, take ongoing training and to participate in marketing and fund raising activities.

Searches can be as short as an hour or stretching into several days on occasion. They are split into shifts called “operational periods”, usually about 8 hours each. When you are notified about a search you will be told if you need your urban, 24 or 48 hour packs.

If you are unable to make it for a search that’s no problem, as volunteers we all have personal lives as well. However to remain operational you must the meet minimum participation requirements set by the organization over a 12-month period, including participation in some searches.

When you respond to the callout with your ‘GO’ or ‘NO GO’ status you should specify if you can make later Operational Periods.

The joining fee is currently a $300 refundable uniform deposit. If you decide to quit the organization a full or partial return of the fee will be given back upon return of the uniform, depending on the condition.

CALSARA does not charge an annual membership fee. However, members may incur personal expenses such as fuel for travel to searches and upgrades or replacement of personal gear.

There are no paid positions in CALSARA. Under certain circumstances we may be reimbursed for travel expenses to and from the search site.

You must provide your own equipment. You will be provided a list of items you will need for your urban, 24 and 48 hour packs. If you are a hiker or outdoors person you may have a good part of the required equipment already. There is a specific type of compass we expect you to use and each member must have their own Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

Search and Rescue is physically demanding. You will often be required to search in arduous terrain while carrying a heavy pack. If you get puffed walking up a few flights of stairs at work then this is definitely not for you! We don’t do any kind of fitness testing or training – it’s up to you to stay fit and know your abilities and limits.

You are expected to carry your cell phone with you all the times when you are available to search. Your packs (urban, 24 hour, 48 hour) should be packed and ready to go. Many of our members keep these in their vehicles for faster response time.

You must be fit for duty and in full control of your faculties when at training or on a search. If you have been out drinking and there is a callout, you may not attend.