The Pima County Sheriff's Department is making a push to make the public more aware of what goes into search and rescue missions.
There are more than 100 search and rescue missions in Pima County each year. Anjani Polit is the president of Southern Arizona Rescue Association (SARA), a volunteer group.
"Part of the reason why we exist is to educate people so that there are fewer call outs that we need to respond to," said Polit
The first answer to a search and rescue call in Pima County is the sheriffs department, with 8 officers on its search and rescue unit. If more help is needed, there are also volunteer teams like SARA. SARA has 150 volunteers, 50 of which are field active. Polit says the public attending events like today's are crucial.
"Understanding what resources are out there and if you have an issue, what steps to take, can greatly benefit people in their preparedness for going out into the outdoors," said Polit
PCSD wants to stress the message that there are steps you can do to reduce your risk, as well as the risk of those who may have to rescue you. Sara volunteers are aware of those dangers and try to do what they can to lower the risks.
"It relies on the good will of all our members to respond when we are called on. But yes, of course, there are risks involved in what we do. We prepare for having to stay out for 24 hours," said Polit
Pima County search and rescue services are free.Since SARA is a volunteer organization, it will not charge you. PCSD and DPS are paid through taxes, and will not charge for a rescue. However, fees may get involved if you are injured and need to be transported to a hospital.
